– Free MSFT desktop programs?

Just read it on the Marketwatch newsletter:

A proposal has been circulated within Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) that the
company make several of its programs available free for use on PC
desktops. Ad-supported versions of the operating system, as well as the
company’s “Money” and “Works” programs, were suggested for consideration
as part of a brainstorming exercise, according to a report by Cnet News.
Offering such options would be a way for the company to add a new
revenue stream, “as Web advertising grows and consumer revenues shrink,”
said two researchers and an MSN employee.

Microsoft confirmed the proposal, Cnet said, but quoted a company
source saying, “It is simply an exploration of different models of
delivering software to customers. It is not policy. It is not a plan.
No decisions have been made.”

courtesy: Marketwatch newsletter