A New Mixx for Social Networking
TechCrunch
The obligatory social media network launch of the day comes in the form of Mixx, a blend of Digg and Facebook with a focus local and niche news. Mixx, which is now in private beta, encourages users to share stories in order to develop a customized Digg-like interface that is specific to each individual’s interests. Michael Arrington suggests that experienced team behind Mixx could help it succeed where others have failed. “I think it’s a worthy experiment. Entrepreneurs have been trying to crack the personalized news nut for years, with a string of failures. At some point someone will get the model right.”
Google Considers Trans-Pacific Cable
Epicenter
An Australian news service has sparked rumors that Google is planning to lay a multi-terabit cable across the Pacific Ocean. The project, dubbed “Unity” reportedly involves a consortium of telecom companies aiming to have the cable in place by the end of next year. Brian Gardiner notes that, if true, this would quickly make Google a major player in the industry. “Google itself would theoretically own a large portion of the… cable, giving the company a leg up on rival internet companies by providing significant cost advantage for trans-Pacific data transmission.”
Networks Lure Viewers with Free Downloads
Mashable
In a recent flurry of activity, Fox and ABC joined NBC in announcing plans to offer free video downloads. Each network has signed deals with separate services, ranging from Amazon, to iTunes, and AOL. Kristen Nicole is unsure how this new trend will play out. “It seems as though all the major networks have made a made a mad dash to complete their fall line up Internet strategy. We’ll see how much this tactic actually helps the television industry in the way it’s hoping for.”
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