ITN On, the multimedia division of ITN, has launched new online services developed using Microsoft Vista.

ITN On is one of the first companies to develop systems based on the latest incarnation of the Windows operating system.

It has launched two services in the form of sidebar gadgets with the Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) to allow users to personalise desktops with the ITN news gadget, ITN Hub.

The services, designed and developed by Fernhart New Media, feature some of the advanced capabilities of the new Vista

operating system and use ITN’s library of news video footage to provide users with quick and easy access to live news and video footage as it is published.

Users are able to view content through the WPF application with 3D and animation effects.

Nicholas Wheeler, managing director of ITN On, says the organisation was keen to start using Vista as soon as possible.

‘A desktop revolution is about to happen. ITN On is using the latest version of Microsoft software to create new-look news to use wherever and whenever it is required,’ said Wheeler.

‘Vista is more secure and easier to use. We wanted to be part of the latest innovation,’ he said.

But some analysts have cast doubt on Vista’s security functionality, which is touted as Microsoft’s most secure operating system to date.

Security vendor Webroot Software says Microsoft’s default malware blocking application and anti-virus programs may not fully protect users. In tests, it found that Window’s Defender failed to block 84 per cent of most common spyware.

‘Viruses are always an issue, but we are not asking for credit card details – we are providing an information service funded by advertising,’ said Wheeler.

Adrian Wright, commercial director at Fernhart New Media, said: ‘There is always a bug-fixing process with any new development platform. In the WPF, we personally logged six bugs with Microsoft and they were fixed immediately.’

ITN On plans to use Vista to develop its services further, and will pay particular attention to improving 3D effects.

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