Microsoft is to release a preview of the stripped down web-based
version of the
Office 2010 product suite in August.
This is the first view millions of potential Widows live users
will get of Microsoft's bold
challenge to rival web-based
Google Apps, according to
The Washington Times.
A
technical preview of the desktop version of Office 2010 is
already available, but Microsoft plans to keep the online version
under wraps a little longer.
The web-based version of Office 2010 will be available for free
to millions of Windows Live users and businesses with long-term
Office licensing agreements.
Analysts have said the move could put $4bn in revenue at risk,
but will keep as many people as possible using Microsoft
applications and is probably worth the gamble.
The technical review, due next month, will confirm how much
software Microsoft will be giving away for free and will indicate
just how much the firm is willing to risk.
The technical review to a select group of users will be followed
by a public beta at the end of the year and a full release in early
2010.