Brand: MacNews

Roxio, creator of the highly acclaimed Toast CD authoring software, posted a first-quarter profit of US$7.2 million on revenues of $37 million, beating analysts’ expectations of a $4-5 million profit. However, the company warned that it only expects to post a slight profit of around $150,000 in the second quarter.

Willow Design today introduced three new “slipcases” for the new iBook and PowerBook G4. The minimalist cases provide a quick and easy way to protect and transport your iBook or PowerBook. The cases sell for US$60 each.

Following our news item this morning regarding the openings of Apple retail stores in Plano, TX and Minneapolis, MN, MacMinute sources have confirmed that the Apple retail store at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, IL will open August 25. Additionally, unconfirmed sources indicate that the Apple retail store in Albany, NY will open in early September.

Intego today introduced FileGuard 4.0, a new version of the Macintosh security software previously from Highware (and published by ASD). FileGuard offers file-, folder-, application-, and disk-level password protection and encryption, as well as secure deletion. The software is currently available for Mac OS 7-9 for US$59.95 (upgrades from 3.x are $29.95), a version for OS X is currently in the works.

America Online is nearing release of a version of its messaging software that will link AOL Instant Messenger with the ICQ service, which is also owned by AOL. The company is also working to link its IM service to that of an unnamed competitor. As part of its merger with Time Warner, AOL was ordered to open its proprietary messaging standard to other services.