An IT Minute

David Chappell a consultant for Microsoft and the principal of David Chappell and Associates has released a whitepaper entitled, "A Short Introduction to Cloud Platforms" in which he does a great job of defining, analyzing and explaining this new computing strategy.

This paper has the following categories of discussion:

Defining Terms
Examining Cloud Platforms
Cloud Infrastructure Services
Cloud

AT&T recently announced the creation of "Connectech" which they claim to be their premium in-home service available 7 days a week to tackle any pc and home theater problems you may have.

Here's a menu of services listed in their press release:

New PC installation and the start up of a home desktop or notebook
PC repair service, including parts and hardware replacement
Home network installation

Microsoft responds with a resounding yes.  The latest creation from Microsoft's Live labs called photosynth.

Here are the requirements to utilize this software:

• Must have windows xp or Vista
• Must have broaband connection to the internet
• Must download a plugin and a piece of software on the desktop

The technology will be showcased on MSN.com and feature synths of popular destinations and events. 

There has been a lot of coverage in the media about the new search engine Cuil developed by ex-employees of Google. 

 Google does a better job of presenting results to queries then this engine at the moment, however, given time I think Cuil will surprise a lot of non believers out there.

According to the about page on cuil.com:

"Rather than rely on superficial popularity metrics, Cuil searches for