According to media releases, Apple Inc. (AAPL) introduced an update to its iTunes software, the iTunes 8.2.1, that limits Palm (PALM) users' access to the updated iTunes on the recently launched Palm Pre smartphone.

During Pre’s release, Palm said that users will be able to download free music, photos and videos via iTunes. Now Pre owners can no longer use Apple's iTunes to sync their smartphones to Macs or PCs. This move is expected to hurt Pre sales going forward as users’ ability to download music and videos now will be restricted.

Pre will not be able to act much like an iPhone or iPod. This is a setback for Palm as it had expected Pre to drive sales and turn the company’s fortunes around.

Apple has the prerogative to take such action as it exclusively owns iTunes. Although Apple has blocked the use of updated iTunes software, Pre owners can

Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE: BBY), a multinational retailer of technology and entertainment products and services, and Napster Inc. (NASD: NAPS), one of the most recognized brands in digital music and a leading provider of online music for the consumer market, recently announced that the two companies have entered into a definitive merger agreement for Best Buy to commence a tender offer for all outstanding Napster shares at a price of $2.65 per share in cash.

With an aggregate purchase price of roughly $121 million (or $54 million net of approximately $67 million in cash and short-term investments of Napster as of June 30, 2008), the proposed acquisition includes Napster’s 700,000 digital entertainment subscribers, its Web-based customer service platform and mobile capabilities. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed during the fourth calendar quarter.

Brian Dunn, the president and chief operating officer of Best