Hewlett-Packard, which was a launch partner for Microsoft's Windows Home Server operating system, today announced an expanded HP MediaSmart Server lineup that also works with Apple Mac computers. The new capability is being aimed at homes with both Macs and PCs on their networks. HP says the servers will work with Apple's Time Machine backup software.

How Quickly We Forget: A new Microsoft patent filing outlines an approach to pay-as-you-go computing, in which PC users would be charged depending on which software and hardware elements they use, and how much time they use them. Some of the coverage is skeptical that Microsoft would actually try such a thing, but in fact, the company started testing a similar model a couple years ago with its FlexGo program in emerging markets.

A story in today's Wall Street Journal foresees tough times ahead for Sony's PlayStation 3, in its competition with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii. From the article: "Sony's strategy of selling a pricey game machine with advanced features and cutting-edge components appears to be backfiring as a deepening recession has U.S. consumers more price sensitive than ever."

Microsoft is showing two new applications for its Surface tabletop computer, dubbed SplatBox and Bubble Wrap. Emil Protalinski has details and videos on Ars Technica's One Microsoft Way blog.

Microsoft has blanketed the New York City Subway system with ads for its I'm a PC campaign, according to multiple tweets from people in the city. Any of our NYC readers able to snap photos? E-mail techflashtips@bizjournals.com.