Sharp calls for more action to contain strong yen
The Japanese government needs to do more to stem the yen’s rise to protect the nation’s export-driven economy as manufacturers increasingly shift production overseas, Sharp’s president said Friday. Mikio Katayama, who heads the Japanese electronics company,… Government of Japan – Japanese yen – Japanese language – Japan – KatayamaMikio
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Samsung Galaxy Tab Keyboard Dock
When Samsung officially unveiled their Android tablet, the Galaxy Tab one day after it was spotted in a Sydney, Australia train station, there was an indication that a number accessories would soon be available. In this respect, Samsung was taking a page out of Apple’s play book and like the iPad, the Galaxy tab will [...]
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iPad Cannibalized 50% of Laptop Sales at Best Buy
Buried in a story on Best Buy’s retail strategy, CEO Brian Dunn mentioned a startling fact: Internal estimates showed that the iPad had cannibalized sales from laptop PCs by as much as 50%.
Read more on FOX 61 Chattanooga

Well, well! We heard it was happening, but I’d forgotten about it until now. And as I said before, you can laugh about it all you want, but I think it could be great. Having an idealized Microsoft experience available, the way Apple makes an idealized Apple experience available, will be invaluable to Redmond’s interests. After all, they’ve got a hot new operating system, lots of solid hardware, and however you want to slice it, lower prices. That said, having one right next to an Apple store is pretty… well, bold would be a kind word for it, but you know what I mean.

Microsoft told a CNET reporter:

As we progress on our retail strategy there will be scenarios where we have stores in proximity to Apple. We are on track to open stores in the fall time frame.

Bonanza! There are plenty of potholes ahead, I’m sure, but I think having a physical and interactive side will do well to counter Microsoft’s well-worn (and inaccurate) “faceless, monolithic software corporation” image. We’re supposed to “stay tuned” for updates, but if they’re smart, they’ll be opening up stores in Bellevue Square and University Village here in Seattle. If so, I’ll be sure to get the inside story.