Type of Article: MacMinute Web Site

Apple has released Open Firmware Password 1.0.2, a new version of its open firmware protection software for Mac OS X 10.1 or later on machines with Firmware update 4.1.7 or later. Users can use the software to prevent others from starting your computer using a CD or other disk with an operating system, or use Firmware password protection to enhance your Mac’s security.

MacMinute reader Craig Habig noticed that Adobe has posted Acrobat Reader 5.0.5, after releasing Acrobat 5.0.5 earlier today. No documentation is provided regarding the changes in the new version, which is available for Mac OS 8.6 and later and Mac OS X.

As anticipated eight days ago, Mac OS X 10.1.2 is now available via the Software Update control panel. The update improves USB and FireWire support, adds PC card storage device support, IrDA modem support on FireWire PowerBooks, includes networking and printing improvements, AirPort 2.0, AppleScript 1.8, Apache web server 1.3.22, and more.

Erik Ryan, a product manager at Microsoft’s Macintosh Business Unit, discusses Office v.X and touches upon Microsoft’s .NET strategy and future Mac titles in an interview with MacSlash. Ryan also says “there is nothing to officially announce right now” regarding Mac OS X drivers for Microsoft’s line of IntelliMouse devices.

U.S. District Court Judge Frederick J. Motz said today in a brief statement that he will not decide until after January 10, 2002, whether to endorse Microsoft’s proposed settlement, according to Reuters. The delay allows more time for Microsoft and settling attorneys to try to negotiate a compromise with dissenting class action lawyers.