WebTV is Microsoft's linchpin in its drive for the interactive media market

Article Abstract:

Microsoft's recent acquisition of WebTV is turning out to be a major plank in the software giant's strategy to extend its marketing profile to the world of interactive, television-based Internet access. At the time of Microsoft's purchase of WebTV for $425 million, the service had 100,000 subscribers. The introduction of an improved network computer, the WebTV Plus, at a reduced price of $299 and 19.95 per month for service, has helped to ramp up the subscription rate to 200,000. Other improvements in the hardware and service include a version of HTML optimized for the television environment, a 1.1GB hard drive, and 128-bit encryption technology. Microsoft, which has also invested $1 billion in the cable company ComCast, sees the beginning of a shift in the home entertainment market.

Electronic computers, Planning, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Microsoft Corp., Services, Internet service providers, Network computers, Information appliances, Company acquisition/merger, Marketing, Information services, Internet service provider, MSFT, Information services industry, Company services, Set-top boxes (Television), Set-top internet box, WebTV Networks Inc., WebTV Networks WebTV Plus (Set-top Internet box)

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The future of online commerce must be built on credibility. And yet, companies continue to squander the public's trust

Article Abstract:

The online businesses in general are not up to the same standards of disclosure as print media. Deals that give preference to certain advertisers or products aren't always revealed to consumers. Consumers should be aware that this advertising influence is pervasive for commercial sites. The FTC is working to educate e-commerce businesses.

United States, Editorial, Standards, Analysis, Consumer protection, Electronic commerce, E-commerce, Customer service, Industry legal issue

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