PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news

A freelance programmer has been reimbursed for refusing to install Windows on a laptop he bought from online computer giant Dell.

Computer buying group Brigantia is set to introduce a ‘bespoke build’ element to its Buyguard warranty scheme.

In a competition promoting the Sony rewards scheme, XMA is a giving away a Sony PSP complete with a 1GB memory card.

Fast-growing online entertainment retailer Play.Com has staked a claim in the PC sector, launching a dedicated section to take on the likes of Dabs.

Microsoft will pay Universal Music Group a fee for each Zune it sells, following the digital music player’s launch in the US next week.

Communications regulator Ofcom has forced BT to hand over 1.5 million of its telephone lines to competitors, further opening up the UK broadband market.

Enta is launching a new loyalty scheme which rewards online customers with gifts and prizes.

According to a study from US market research firm Parks Associates, the number of home networks is set to double globally within the next five years.

Redten Internet, a subsidiary of Watford Electronics, has announced a broadband deal which includes a £500 PC bundle as part of a £19.99 per month, three year broadband contract.

VNU Exhibitions has rebranded the Computer Trade Show to reflect a new approach to the UK's principal IT channel show.

Over 100 Tesco stores are already stocking its new range of office and utility software, developed specifically by Formjet.

Following strong Q3 results, Acer has usurped Dell to reach the second place in the EMEA PC market.