Freshdesk had initially hoped its results would show apps with customer support crushing their support-less counterparts since the company offers app developers a free plug-in software product, MobiHelp, to serve as a layered-on customer support solution.

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Google is testing a fleet of plug-in hybrids and software that would turn them into load-balancing tools for utilities flooded with variable power from wind and solar generators.

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The recipient doesn't need a plug-in or any special software to read your message.

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While open-source e-mail and calendaring software, such as Mozilla Thunderbird e-mail software and the Lightning calendaring plug in, is good stuff, it's not easy for a small office to set up messaging software of any kind without a bit of professional help, unless you're an office full of techies.

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The clever bit (and forgive me - it's hard not to make this sound like a plug) is wrapped up in the software being worked on by a team of about 70.

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In 2002, Boston's Logan International Airport tested facial-recognition software, but pulled the plug after cameras failed to recognize airport employees whose photos were in the system.

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The Mac uses only plug-in memory modules, its operating system automatically recognizes all the memory present, and all Mac software can share it.

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The Ecosign team fired up AutoCAD, a design software used by architects and engineers to sketch three-dimensional project drafts, and used PCs to plug in technical numbers for Olympic courses.

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