We've just gotten word that Acer is to configure all its notebooks to have Yahoo as the default search engine and homepage. The Yahoo browser toolbar will come pre-installed too for good measure.

Hardware vendors tying software in with their products is nothing new. Just look at how Microsoft has managed to get every major PC manufacturer to supply Windows as standard.

Acer is generally well regarded, we think it's a good value for money brand. (Our most recent review was the Acer Aspire 5652.) Of course you can avoid Yahoo taking over your browser on a new Acer by simply installing Firefox as soon as you get your notebook!