Economist.com to charge readers

The move mirrors Murdoch’s News Corporation’s decision last month to introduce a paid-for model for its online news content. The title is understood to be looking at a number of payment options, including an iTunes-style micro-payment model.

Yvonne Ossman, publisher of The Economist in the UK, told online UK publication Media Week that while Murdoch’s move is welcome, she is unsure if other news publications will follow suit. But she believes that “people will pay for analysis and debate”.

Hasbro & Google turn the world into Monopoly
Hasbro has teamed up with Google to use Google Maps and Google Earth technology to create a free online game that turns the world into a Monopoly Board. The online campaign craeted by digital agency Tribal DDB launched worldwide last Wednesday (Sept 9).

Named Monopoly City Streets, the game will run for four months and players will be able to buy and sell properties on any street they desire. However, each address can only be bought by one person. Players can build skyscrapers and even football stadiums as well as the usual houses and hotels, which they can then use to earn extra rent. Rent is paid automatically each day starting from 5,000 Monopoly dollars for a house.

Chance cards will allow players to challenge rivals by building prisons, rubbish dumps and sewage works.