A Fool Looks Back

 Right off the bat, it's easy to assume that this will never work.Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) and Google aren't setting the world on fire with their recent TV introductions. How can Mr. Softy stand a chance?

Microsoft often follows Apple and Google, and not necessarily well. It's making a push for Google in search. It has tried to make its Zune relevant in an iPod world. It has also taken both on in mobile platforms.

Microsoft TV would be a challenge, even if it builds it on the back of the already thriving Xbox Live community. Cable networks are unlikely to go the piecemeal route, since audiences and revenue will dwindle. More importantly, Microsoft has come up short in areas where Apple and Google have succeeded, so why should it succeed in a digital niche where Apple and Google are struggling?

You can't fault the tech giant for trying, but don't wait up for Microsoft TV.

Briefly in the news
And now let's take a quick look at some of the other stories that shaped our week.

• China Finance Online (Nasdaq: JRJC) posted a 29% spike in premium subscribers over the past year, but revenue at the provider of stock-market research for individual investors in China declined slightly in its latest quarter. This accounts for 82% of its revenue mix, so one has to assume that subscribers are paying less than they used to.
• Sirius XM Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI) has crossed the 20 million mark in subscribers. You still don't think satellite radio is a fad, do you?
• Shares of Clearwire (Nasdaq: CLWR) took a hit after announcing a $1.1 billion debt offering. I realize that investors are avoiding leveraged companies, but have you seen the interest rates available on corporate debt these days?
• eBay (Nasdaq: EBAY) is buying Milo.com, a website that works with local retailers to provide real-time availability and prices. It's a new-media way to promote old school retailing.

Until next week, I remain,

Rick Munarriz