Microsoft seems to have big plans for their SideShow auxiliary display technology -- besides the laptop and remote control implementations we've been expecting, they're also using the software for products that we didn't even know we needed, such as digital photo frames that overlay the picture with IMs and Outlook data. The frame, which is being manufactured by a company called A Living Picture, was one of three devices that Microsoft's senior project manager for Windows Client Greg Graceffo showed off at today's Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC), along with a modified Logitech G15 gaming keyboard and a universal remote from Exceptional Innovations. EI's remote, which will launch at the same time as Vista (whenever that is), looks particularly promising, as it allows the user to view program guides, RSS feeds, and other infoswag on the same gadget that can control both home theater equipment and home automation devices. As for the keyboard, well, keep reading if you're interested in seeing what an Outlook appointment looks like on a three-line LCD...

So instead of revealing that upgraded version of the 770 Internet Tablet as we expected them to today, Nokia flipped the script on us and announced that the Google Talk and keyboard features we had been anticipating will actually be coming in the form of a software upgrade. The good news is that these new features — part of the company’s so-called Internet Tablet 2006 OS — will be available to current 770 owners through a simple update, although those folks who were expecting a hardware QWERTY option (and not just an on-screen “thumb board”) are certainly going to be disappointed. On the plus side, the new OS will support SIP-based VoIP solutions, with Nokia specifically mentioning that a version of the Gizmo Project client is forthcoming. IT2006 will become the default operating system on 770 units, and will be available as a free download to existing 770 users, beginning sometime this quarter.

Saki Mobile, the kinda-sorta MVNO that also distributes its content through a Windows Mobile application, has teamed up with independent "digital record label" INgrooves to offer users what they're calling a "wireless digital music community." INgroove, which represents such artists as Nappy Roots and Thievery Corporation, will offer their musicians' songs, bios, pictures, ringtones, etc., etc., along with supposed "direct access" to the bands themselves through a messaging service. Furthermore, subscribers can communicate amongst one another using Saki's IM client, chatting and sending around concert info and band updates, along with all the great swag that they've downloaded.

[Via Moco News]