The next version of Microsoft's MSN Internet access software is due
for release by the end of the year. For some users it will sport a
significant new feature - a price tag.
The company is preparing to release MSN 8.0, its password-protected
Internet software that allows users to access MSN e-mail accounts,
news and entertainment content and browse the Web. Along with its
Internet access service, the software competes against that of
America Online.
MSN 8.0 will be available for free to customers of Microsoft's MSN
Internet Service, which is available for dial-up and broadband
connections. However, customers wanting to use the software with
Internet access from another service provider will have to pay a
fee.
Microsoft said MSN 8.0 it will be sold on a subscription basis. It
is scheduled for release late 2002. MSN 7.0 is available for free
from Microsoft's Web site at explorer.msn.com/home.htm
MSN 8.0 will include new parental control features that allow users
to block access to certain Web sites. Parents will also be able to
control the e-mail addresses their children use to send and receive
messages.
Additionally, parents will be able to receive a weekly status
report that details which Web sites their children visit and how
long they spend at each site.
MSN 8.0 will also feature a customisable desktop, and a new feature
called a "dashboard" where users can display instant messenger
buddy lists, news, weather, stock quotes and digital photos.
Another new feature is what Microsoft calls "natural language". By
typing a word or phrase into the address panel in the MSN Web
browser, users will receive a list of online destinations that
relate to the phrase.
An entry of "San Francisco", for example, might bring up links to
maps or guides of the city. Typing an e-mail address into the
address panel will open a window in the MSN e-mail client where
users can compose a message.
The e-mail client in the software will also be improved to mirror
Microsoft Outlook, the company's desktop software for managing
e-mail.