Few consumers regret that Windows has absorbed what once were stand-alone applications such as fax programs, or that Intel now makes faster processors.

ECONOMIST: Beleaguered Microsoft

In addition, flash memory is making its way into more enterprise and client computer applications, both as a stand alone storage device and as a cache memory and system accelerator.

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There are nearly 600, 000 applications for sale in the Apple App Store alone, and another 400, 000 for sale in Google's Android Market.

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NEWSWEEK: Privacy Policy

In one round alone more than 1, 000 staff expressed an interest in leaving with about 250 applications finally accepted.

BBC: Council headquarters

This feature alone is enough to give LEDs an enormous advantage in lower maintenance costs for many applications, especially in outdoor and industrial environments.

FORBES: The LED Illumination Revolution

AmeriCorps applications were up 400 percent in just the first four months of this year alone.

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Moreover, any such search would be incomplete, because it cannot reveal applications that are not yet published (18 months from filing in most cases), let alone those that have not yet been filed.

FORBES: Patent Wars Rage As Tech Industry Waits For Serious Reforms

In the United States alone, four companies have been created to develop and commercialise HTSC wires and tapes for electric power and mobile phone applications.

BBC: Last Updated: Monday, 5 March 2007, 08:38 GMT