Security researchers have discovered a virus that infects iPods running Linux. This in itself isn’t too noteworthy, but the researchers say that this demonstrates that malicious programs can be made for devices like the iPod.

I imagine that there will be an explosion in viruses for mobile devices: from cell phones to PDAs to music players, especially as these devices connect to the Internet.

It looks like every big firm that has anything to do with media is planning an entry into the online music distribution business. This time it looks like Best Buy is about to throw their hat into the ring.

ArsTechnica tells us that the service will be based on Real’s Rhapsody, and that one the major advantages Best Buy has going forward is that it is the largest consumer electronics store and the place where people already buy a lot of music. Competitors to Best Buy’s new service sell their wares at Best Buy already. Apple sells many of its iPods at Best Buy stores across the country, Microsoft is likely planning to sell many of its Zunes(?) there as well.

Apple has just released a patch fixing 15 security flaws, including bugs in Flash player.

If you’re an Apple user, running one of following: OS X Mac OS X v10.3.9, Mac OS X Server v10.3.9, Mac OS X v10.4 through Mac OS X v10.4.7, and Mac OS X Server v10.4 through Mac OS X Server v10.4.7, you will want to download this update. The update is called Security Update 2006-006.

If your iPod Nano (I don’t know if this works with other iPods or not) has crashed, you can usually restart it by holding down Menu and then the Middle button for 10 seconds. If that doesn’t work try it again, and if it still doesn’t work just wait till the battery runs out.

If you’re still having problems visit this guide at Apple.

* My iPod has crashed more than Windows XP has in the last 3 months. Go figure.

Zune is Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s seeming monopoly on all things audio. Like the iTunes and iPod combo, Microsoft’s Zune will offer audio playing hardware (iPod) and audio playing software (iTunes). One of the announcements that has generated a lot of buzz is that Microsoft will buy all of the songs for you that you have on iTunes.

The name Zune sounds a tad cheesy, but I’m sure I will get used to it just like I did for the XBOX 360 and Vista.

TechCrunch.com has a good question which Microsoft should ask itself: Will Microsoft take a position of true innovation or will it still be playing catchup - at the risk of feature overload.

Feature overload and unnecessary complexity should be avoided at all costs, the joy of Apple products is their simplicity. If they start using the direction they are moving towards with the latest Windows Media Player BETA, it will be great. Simplicity and power is the combination that Microsoft should strive for with Zune and with future endeavors.