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Changes in tech world almost too fast to follow

It’s not another bubble, but wild times are back in the technology industry.

A massive shift has begun, and it’s centered on Microsoft, as the company and its competitors reposition themselves — in some cases as partners — for the future.

That’s created a wave of tech news this week that feels like the boom of 1999 viewed through a funhouse mirror: Apple rolls out video players, Google bids on America Online, Microsoft makes nice with RealNetworks and does deals with Yahoo!

Industry watchers say it’s only the beginning. They expect the pace to continue through the fall as companies jockey for new positions. Microsoft is trying to be more like faster-moving Internet companies, and Internet companies are trying to be more like Microsoft — turning their Web sites into places where people spend the day working and playing, instead of a few minutes visiting.

"I would call it a flood of activity," said Friday Harbor technology commentator Mark Anderson. "That’s what’s so strange about it — there was nothing doing a month ago, and suddenly we’re in full flood here."

By Brier Dudley

Seattle Times technology reporter

Full Story: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2002557739_techlandscape13.html

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