BUSINESS BRIEFS
Apple unveils PC browser
Advertiser Staff and News Services
SAN FRANCISCO — Apple Inc. launched a version of its Safari Web browser for Windows-based PCs yesterday, adding yet another tentacle to its multipronged encroachment of Microsoft Corp.'s turf.
The free program is the latest move by Apple to expand its reach beyond its Macintosh computers and, at the same time, attract new converts to its products. The upcoming iPhone seeks to be another draw.
In fact, Apple said yesterday it would run a full version of Safari on the iPhone, thus allowing developers to create Web-based applications for the hybrid smartphone-iPod.
CEO Steve Jobs made clear that despite the company's increasing focus on consumer electronics devices, Apple remains committed to competing in the PC market.
FORD LOOKING AT SELLING 3 BRANDS
DETROIT — Ford Motor Co. could raise more money for its massive restructuring plan or a shift in union healthcare if the automaker finds a buyer for its Jaguar, Volvo and Land Rover brands, analysts said yesterday.
Ford, which lost $12.6 billion last year, is assessing all options, a person familiar with company plans said.
Ford hired Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to pursue the sale of the three Premier Automotive Group brands, according to published reports citing sources familiar with the strategy.
TOOTHPASTE FROM CHINA RECALLED
MIAMI — A Florida company issued a nationwide recall yesterday of toothpaste it imported from China and distributed to wholesalers, saying that the product may contain a poisonous chemical.
Gold City Enterprise LLC said the roughly 170,000 recalled Shir toothpaste products may contain diethylene glycol, a thickening agent used in antifreeze and as a cheaper substitute for the sweetener glycerin. No injuries or illnesses have been reported.
The recalled toothpaste brands are Shir Fresh Mint Fluoride, Shir Fresh Ice Shir Mint Fluoride and Shir Fresh Cool Shir Mint Fluoride.
