If either Oracle or Sun had truly understood what it was they were trying to provide when they ventured out with the network computer concept, we might already be dealing with a whole different desktop experience -- and a new set of vendors to provide it.

CNN: The future of desktop PCs

New ways of dealing with micro-payments are emerging, such as by deduction from a prepaid account with a computer company, Internet-service provider or mobile-phone company.

ECONOMIST: A survey of online finance