Firefox + Adblock + FiltersetG Updater: Web Browsing Bliss

I've decided to create a series of screencasts I've dubbed "Tech Essentials" illustrating some of the applications and services I consider essential to keeping my PCs and other gadgets running at their best. The first-Firefox + Adblock-can be found by clicking the badge at the bottom of the post. I've always considered dedicating a blog just to this sort of thing. If there's enough interest in "Tech Essentials" I'll consider doing it on an ongoing basis. Are there any applications you consider essential for your OS to run its best?

WalMart Video: DOA?

The webosphere was abuzz today, with the news of WalMart releasing a video download service. According to the write up over at TechCrunch, it looks like someone forgot to test the CSS on Firefox. Simply amazing! Then again, does it really matter anyway? Didn't they learn their lesson with the music downloads? It doesn't matter if you can sell a movie for $0.02 less than your competitor (using the term very loosely here), if you can't match or beat Apple's ecosystem then you might as well throw in the towel. When are these people going to get it?

Google Reader Updated?

I have been happily using Google Reader as my primary feed reader since its rebirth last year. I've been impressed with the responsiveness of the app, and while it hasn't always performed like a desktop counterpart, it's been pretty good. During the last several days, however, Reader has been cutting through my feeds like a hot knife through butter. It seems much more responsive now that it ever has at any point. I have not made any modifications to my MacMini, OS X or Firefox 2.01, which I use to browse my feeds. Does anyone know if the Reader team snuck in an update and hasn't told anyone?