Microsoft Corp to introduce 'pay per hour' home PC programme for emerging countries

Worldwide Computer Products News, May 22, 2006

Worldwide Computer Products News-22 May 2006-Microsoft Corp to introduce 'pay per hour' home PC programme for emerging countries(C)1995-2006 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD http://www.m2.com

FlexGo technology has been developed by software company Microsoft Corp to enable users to pay by the hour to use a computer at home as part of a plan to sell computers in emerging countries to lower-income consumers.

Microsoft Corp has worked with companies - including computer manufacturer Lenovo Group Ltd - on the FlexGo programme and is introducing the service as part of its aim to find new revenue sources and overcome barriers in emerging countries.

According to Microsoft Corp, it is introducing a second trial of the FlexGo plan in Brazil this week, with introductions in China, India, Mexico and Russia to follow within the next 90 days.

The FlexGo programme will enable users to pay for around 50% of the computer up-front and then obtain hourly access to the computer, at home, through the purchase of pre-paid cards required to keep the computer available for use. The pre-paid card will contribute to paying off the cost of the computer, although interest rates and financing models will vary and Microsoft Corp has not confirmed how much the user will pay, in total, above the retail price.

FlexGo will offer mid-range PCs with the consumer version of Windows initially, though higher-end PCs may follow, and users will need at least occasional dial-up Internet access in order to participate.

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