User Uptick
The number of people using the Internet is still increasing in the U.S., though not as fast as it has in years past, according to audience measurement firm Nielsen// NetRatings. The company estimates that 102 million people in the U.S. used the Internet at home in July 2001, about 16 percent more than the 88 million who went online one year earlier.
Busted!
The FBI arrested four suspected software pirates in Los Angeles who were allegedly running a multimillion-dollar operation shipping counterfeit software to Asia. Agents confiscated CD-ROMs with Microsoft software, including Office and Windows Millennium Edition, estimated to be worth $10.5 million.
OpenGlobe Lands Funding
OpenGlobe, which develops digital entertainment technologies, raised $14.9 million in first-round funding from investors including Lazard Frères & Co., Baystar Capital and Texas Instruments. OpenGlobes customers include Compaq Computer and Kenwood.
Netpliance Relabels
Netpliance, a struggling Internet appliance developer, will change its name to TippingPoint Technologies and implement a 1-for-15 reverse stock split in an effort to remain listed on Nasdaq. For the second quarter of 2001, it had a net loss of $5.8 million and no revenue. The company doesnt expect to generate revenue until next year.
Screaming Deal
Internet content syndicator ScreamingMedia has inked a deal with Prodigy Communications. New Yorks ScreamingMedia will provide custom business, entertainment, technology and other content to Prodigys 3.3 million users. Financial terms were not disclosed.
