Compaq's Easy Internet Access Service: A New Revenue Stream for PC Makers

Strategic Insights -

Compaq's Presario PCs have sparked a quiet revolution in the PC industry with the introduction of four extra keys for specific Internet-related functions. This innovative feature, known as Easy Internet Access Service, allows users to access preprogrammed sites with a simple touch of a button. Compaq has partnered with Internet portal company Yahoo! in the United States, taking users directly to a special Compaq-centric Yahoo! site with a single click.

Key Takeaways:

  • Compaq's Presario PCs feature four extra keys for specific Internet-related functions, including activating an Internet connection wizard and taking users directly to preprogrammed sites.
  • Compaq has entered into a deal with Yahoo! in the United States, allowing users to access a special Compaq-centric Yahoo! site with a single click.
  • The Easy Internet Access Service promises a new revenue stream for PC makers, allowing them to sign bounty agreements with Internet destination vendors in exchange for pre-programming the key's destinations.
  • Compaq's business manager, Rob Balmer, stated that the primary focus is to make the Internet setup process easier for users.
  • Compaq has already bundled a Telstra Big Pond starter disk with its Presarios and was paid a bounty for each customer that signed up.
  • Compaq plans to pursue more deals with ISPs and portal vendors to create alternative revenue streams.

Statistics:

  • Four extra keys are featured on Compaq's Presario PCs for specific Internet-related functions.
  • Compaq has partnered with Yahoo! in the United States to create a special Compaq-centric Yahoo! site.
  • Compaq plans to sign bounty agreements with Internet destination vendors to create a new revenue stream.
  • The Easy Internet Access Service aims to make the Internet setup process easier for users.
  • Compaq has already tested the Easy Internet Access Service with Telstra Big Pond starter disk, and plans to pursue more deals.

Sources:

  • "Compaq's Easy Internet Access Service: A New Revenue Stream for PC Makers" by Brad Howarth.
  • Yahoo! Australia senior producer Alan Jones.
  • Compaq Australia's consumer division business manager Rob Balmer.
  • "Compaq's Presario PCs Featuring Easy Internet Access Service" (no date).