November 2, 2005

Microsoft Introduces Web Services, Competing With Google and Yahoo - New York Times

Microsoft will soon be offering serious competition to Yahoo! and Google for web services. Evolution of the Web made possible by 'always on' broadband services, particularly ubiquitous wireless access, will create a true digital lifestyle for many consumers and small businesses.

"At Tuesday's event, which was marred by several technical glitches, Microsoft announced the immediate availability of a test version of its new Internet portal live.com.

The company called the service a 'personalized starting point' for a variety of Web services like e-mail, instant messaging, and a new set of Internet-based software called gadgets. These are small Internet-based applications that provide mail, stock prices, weather forecasts and other simple functions.

The company also demonstrated its new Internet mail service, called Windows Live Mail based on an Internet technology known as AJAX, which will be as responsive as a desktop e-mail program. The service will initially be offered in a limited form.

The company demonstrated several new features available as part of a new instant messaging service called Windows Live Messenger, including the ability to make Internet voice calls directly to standard telephone numbers. Internet phone providers like Skype currently offer that service. A Microsoft spokesman said the company planned to offer the service by subscription, not free."

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