Microsoft interested in launching free, ad-supported desktop software

Posted on Wednesday, November 16 2005 @ 12:01 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck

CNET talks about a possible new strategy from Microsoft to launch free, ad-supported versions of some of it desktop products. This may include products like Works, Money or even the Windows operating system itself.

"As Web advertising grows and consumer revenues shrink, we need to consider creating ad-supported versions of our software," two Microsoft researchers and an MSN employee wrote in a paper presented to company executives earlier this year. The document was prepared for one of Microsoft's twice-yearly Thinkweek exercises, in which Chairman Bill Gates and other top executives gather to consider potential new avenues for the company to follow.

About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.

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