Glanceable MSN Direct content, including news, weather and stocks, can be
accessed from the home screen of Windows Mobile devices.
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Today at Mobile
World Congress 2008, Microsoft Corp. announced the availability of a
technology preview for accessing MSN Direct content on Windows Mobile-based
devices.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO )
With this technology preview, customers can receive instant access to
information such as weather and stock updates; top news stories; and
entertainment, sports and business news. The information is presented in a
glanceable format, and is easily accessible directly from the home screen
of a device. Content is automatically updated so that customers have
immediate access to the content that matters most to them.
"This is the first time MSN Direct content has been made available to
mobile phones, and it is a strong next step for the delivery of MSN Direct
content where customers have said they need it the most," said Eric Lang,
general manager of the MSN Direct initiative at Microsoft. "We are excited
about the opportunities this new application will bring to mobile
operators, consumers and the industry."
After installing the technology preview on the device, customers can
select content based on relevancy and preference. For more in-depth
information on the topics a person is exploring, MSN Direct provides links
that connect users to the relevant areas of the popular MSN Mobile portal.
Together, MSN Direct and MSN Mobile provide users with quick and easy
options for getting current information while on the go.
"The MSN Direct for mobile technology preview is a clear demonstration
of Microsoft's commitment to bringing simple and useful information to
mobile customers," said Alexander Gounares, corporate vice president of
Microsoft Ads and Commerce. "We are pleased to offer this preview and look
forward to feedback."
The MSN Direct content is supplied by a number of leading partners,
including Foreca Ltd. for current weather information, Comstock Resources
Inc. for stock prices, and MSNBC for the wide gamut of news offerings.
Windows Mobile customers interested in downloading the MSN Direct
technology preview can use either of the following methods:
-- Via mobile browser. From the Web browser on their mobile phone, users
go to http://phone.msndirect.com and follow the instructions on the
page to download and install MSN Direct.
-- Via PC. Users download MSN Direct to their PC and copy it over to
their device using whatever software they normally use (such as
ActiveSync). On the device, they click on the MSN Direct file to begin
installation.
The MSN Direct application is free to download; MSN Direct requires
data connectivity from a wireless carrier, which may charge additional
fees. Consumers should check with their wireless provider for its coverage
areas and service fees.
About MSN Direct
MSN Direct, part of the Smart Personal Objects Technology initiative,
is a specialized wireless service that delivers customized and personalized
information to people. Those interested in learning more about MSN Direct
can visit http://www.msndirect.com.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in
software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize
their full potential.
For more information on MSN Direct devices, services, pricing, coverage
and availability:
Visit http://www.msndirect.com.
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