Kazaa upgrade adds filter function

Australia-based Sharman Networks released a new version of its popular Kazaa file-trading software Thursday, adding a new look and a few features to the peer-to-peer program. The software now includes a password-locked "family filter" function that allows parents to block downloads of pornography or other material. A recommendations feature has also been added. The download continues to be bundled with several "adware" programs, as well as Brilliant Digital Entertainment software. The Brilliant Digital software, which will ultimately turn people's computers into a new file-swapping network controlled by that company, has prompted considerable online criticism recently after its purpose was revealed. Brilliant Digital CEO Kevin Bermeister has said the company will ask Kazaa users' permission before activating this software and using people's computer resources, however. --John Borland, Special to ZDNet News