ALSO NOTED: L.A. deploys Motomesh; Remaking the dialtone; and much more...

> Microsoft looks to give the dialtone a remake: When you pick up your phone, Redmond thinks it should ask you, "What do you want to do? Who do you want to call?" Sounds much more annoying than that soothing dual tone. Blog [1]

> The WSJ has a lengthy piece analyzing LG's approach to its latest handset, Shine. Article [2] (sub. req.)

> U.K. schools finally figure out a way to stop all that mobile phone-powered cheating. Note: no signals get blocked. Blog [3]

> Hutchison agrees to pony up $373.5 million to Essar at the close of transaction with Vodafone, plus another $41.5 million after certain goals are met. Article [4]

> L.A. deploys Moto's mesh network for public safety. Release [5]

And Finally... In late 2003 Verizon Wireless commercially launched its DO network in which two markets? Submit your response here. [6]

Yesterday's Question: According to the original guidelines issued by the FCC in October 2003, what is the acceptable time limit suggested for the completion of switching a customer's number under number portability? No more than how many hours? Answer: 2.5 hours. First correct answers came from: Jodi Echakowitz, Echo Communications [7]; Michael Sumitra, Convergys [8]; Jeff Lee, Proteus [9]; Jason Minkkinen, T-Mobile USA [10]