This is one of those weeks - maybe even months and perhaps years - that Microsoft becomes a media juggernaut, one that threatens to eclipse all else in the IT universe with its developing projects, new technology and competitive efforts. It's certainly taking over this column. So, in case you missed it....

Paper Tiger?

Microsoft's Origami Project (see TG Daily story here) got the rumour mill churning last week. The software giant gave its best Apple impersonation with a Website that offers a short video teaser regarding the new product, which experts speculate will be a mobile device that falls somewhere between a PDA and a laptop. Will it be a gaming device similar to Sony's PSP? Is it an iPod-like music and video player? Could it be an ultra-light tablet PC? Or is it all three?

The hokey little video promised more information on March 2, but Microsoft wouldn't be Microsoft without a delay or postponement. Apparently, the company will divulge more details at CeBit this week in Germany. Don't hold your breath for details, but we should get a more clear idea of exactly which market Origami is aimed at taking over.

Microsoft spent several years trying to create a buzz for the tablet PC at Comdex - rest in peace, ye olde trade show - and has been musing about taking down Apple's iPod and expanding its own gaming business into the mobile arena. Given that, it wouldn't at all be surprising if the company launched some type of effort that aimed to kill three birds with one stone.