Revolutionary step Microsoft: Free software

Microsoft begins to release free software. So far, it is only about the Works program - this is a lightweight analogue of MS Office. The release of the first free office package Microsoft will become a revolutionary step in the development of the company and marks a new stage in the struggle of the Bill Gates empire with its main competitor - Google, CNews reports.

The corporation plans that the product will pay off by advertising. Microsoft Works Se 9 will be installed on a number of PCs that will go on sale in the coming months. Thus, Microsoft intends to check how attractive such a business model is, Reuters notes.

The composition of Microsoft Works includes a text editor, an editor of electric tables, a calendar and a number of auxiliary tools united by a similar interface. This software complex is primarily intended for home users and educational institutions, since, unlike its "older brother", it offers less opportunities. To date, its retail price is about $ 40.

Part of the advertising content will be recorded on the computer’s hard disk when installing Microsoft Works, when connecting to the Internet, advertising will be updated, said Melissa Stern, head of the Microsoft Office development unit.

According to Western analysts, the company's desire to experiment in this direction is understandable. The number of free programs replacing Microsoft Office is growing steadily, which presents a real threat to the Microsoft monopoly position on the office programs.

The project is carried out in conjunction with certain PC manufacturers, the names of these companies have not yet been disclosed.