The CD was supposed to change all our lives by making the leap from music format of choice to living room multimedia marvel. But somehow it never worked out that way in reality...

Second Life creator Linden Lab has launched a beta programme that will offer a behind-the-firewall virtual world for enterprises..

Test virtual operating systems

The G.hn standard for wired home networking via power cables has passed another milestone, after gaining approval from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) standards body.

A very likeable all-in-one – albeit limited in its usefulness beyond basic functions. Read our review of Shuttle's new all-in-one X50

It was the dream of the connected digital lifestyle future. A fridge that would remember your shopping list, tell you when you're running low on anything, and even contact the supermarket. So what happened?

Remember the CD-i? Launched in 1991, this odd appliance promised a revolution in the way we watch movies at home, just as Blu-Ray does today.

A new breed of Google Android enhanced appliances could be in your home by the end of 2009

Oodles of storage and middling performance, but found lacking

Wondering how to take advantage of the new 50% tax break for small business IT purchases? Our tax resource centre explains everything you need to know.

D-Link offers a well-built desktop NAS appliance that looks good value, but for business users it’s short of features

More than just a new coat of paint, the new Wind adds mobility with 3G. While the design and features don't look as cutting edge as they once did, this is still a great netbook

Not unlike the villain from Terminator 2, future batteries could solely consist of liquid metal, providing massive storage capabilities for energy alternatives such as wind farms and solar cells.

IT execs looking to open source options, says Novell.

Consumers will have real-time access to energy consumption data.

A wireless security system with good roaming support, but it isn’t perfect

A huge capacity, classy specification, plenty of business-related storage features and lightning performance

An easily managed appliance for small offices. Performance is modest, but it offers useful remote access features

A tad pricey but a well-built desktop DAS appliance with plenty of fault-tolerant storage and top performance

Selecting presents for the geek or gadgeteer in your life? We take the hassle out of gift buying, so you can put your feet up and relax.