Microsoft and Compaq Announce Expanded Partnership to Offer MSN Services on Compaq Presario PCs

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft Corp. and Compaq Computer Corp. have announced a plan to offer more pre-installed services on Compaq Presario PCs, starting this summer. The partnership includes one-punch access to MSN Internet sign-up, MSN portals, Hotmail e-mail services, Search features, and MoneyCentral. The two companies will jointly market programs, service development, and promotions, extending the co-branded service beyond Presario PCs to include Compaq Internet appliances, wireless devices, home networking products, and joint broadband initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft and Compaq will offer more pre-installed services on Compaq Presario PCs, including MSN Internet sign-up, MSN portals, Hotmail e-mail services, Search features, and MoneyCentral.
  • The partnership will include joint marketing programs, service development, and promotions, extending the co-branded service to various Compaq products.
  • Compaq Presario PCs will be equipped with Microsoft's MSN services, making it easier for consumers to access the internet and rich content.
  • Rick Belluzzo, Vice President of Microsoft's Consumer Group, and Mike Larson, VP of Compaq Consumer Group, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership's potential to transform the web into a highly personalized experience.
  • The partnership will include the development of future internet services, offering consumers the easiest way to get online and access rich content and services.

Statistics:

  • The partnership will start offering more pre-installed services on Compaq Presario PCs this summer.
  • Compaq Presario PCs will offer one-punch access to MSN Internet sign-up, MSN portals, Hotmail e-mail services, Search features, and MoneyCentral.
  • Microsoft and Compaq will jointly develop future internet services to offer consumers the easiest way to get online and access rich content and services.

Sources:

  • Newsbytes.com (20000320/Press contact: Cherry Harris, Compaq, 281-927-8167; Darbie Shelman, MSN, 503-443-7000/WIRES ONLINE, BUSINESS/)
  • Compaq Computer Corp. (http://www.compaq.com)
  • Microsoft Corp. (http://www.microsoft.com)