IBM Consumer PCs Shine With Windows Millennium Edition

Business Wire, Sept 15, 2000

Business Editors, Hi-Tech Writers

ARMONK, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 15, 2000

Consumers to benefit from features that simplify computing, enhance

connectivity

IBM(R) today announced that its new lineup of ThinkPad(a) notebooks and NetVista(a) desktop personal computers designed for consumers is optimized for the new Windows(R) Millennium Edition(b) (Windows Me) operating system, unveiled yesterday by Microsoft(R)(b). The IBM notebooks and desktops mark the creation of a portfolio of technologies, such as wireless connectivity and integrated help and support, that IBM will offer consumers to enable them get the most out of the latest Microsoft operating platform.

Windows Me(b) will be pre-loaded onto certain models of IBM's ThinkPad i Series(a) 1200 and 1300 notebooks, the recently announced NetVista "A" series desktops, and the NetVista X40i all-in-one PC. The new ThinkPad i Series will be the first Intel-based notebook computers to feature integrated wireless LAN capabilities. Additionally, integrated ethernet solutions are available on select i Series models.

Following the introduction of Windows Me, IBM also announced today that for a limited time, customers can call 1-888-SHOP-IBM to purchase select, ready-to-go NetVista desktops available with Windows Me at special promotional pricing starting as low as $649(1), or shop on-line at www.ibm.com to find special promotional pricing on select NetVista desktops with monitors. The NetVista line of desktops provide uncompromised performance and value, unprecedented style and simplicity in a fully optimized package for fast, easy connection to the Internet(2). In the A series, customers can select their choice of processors, combined with integrated graphics and exceptional audio capabilities at a low price. In the X series, consumers can expect outstanding performance and cutting-edge design in an all-in-one desktop form factor, ideal for the home office, dormitory or anywhere that space may be limited.

IBM has made significant efforts to prepare its products and to inform its customers about Windows Me. To meet the needs of its customers to quickly and easily migrate to Windows Me , IBM will be offering upgrade kits to users who have purchased select(3) IBM Aptiva(a), Intellistation(a), PC 300(a), NetVista and ThinkPad products on or after July 15, 2000 through October 15, 2000 in certain countries(4), with Windows 98 Second Edition(b) pre-installed. The IBM Upgrade Kit will include the Windows Me operating system upgrade CD and theWindows Me Quickstart Guide. Customers can purchase the upgrade kits, at a special IBM price, through November 15, 2000 by visiting www.mil.upgrade-now.com.

"IBM and Microsoft recognize that customers demand complete functionality out of their computer systems, whether in their home, office or on the road. IBM ThinkPad notebooks and NetVista desktops offer consumers the choices they need to match their personal computing style and preferences at a price that's right," said Ralph Martino, vice president of marketing & strategy, IBM Personal Systems Group. "Customers will find that IBM innovations are designed to work in concert with Windows Me to offer consumers a valuable e-lifestyle computing experience."

"We're delighted with the enthusiasm that IBM has shown for Windows Me. IBM and Microsoft have worked together to deliver a complete solution to meet our customers' need for a richer and more exciting user experience in today's connected home" said John Frederiksen, general manager for the PC Experience group at Microsoft Corp.. "The combination of Windows Me on IBM NetVista desktops and IBM ThinkPad notebooks is a powerful combination to help the home user get the most out of the Internet and Digital pictures, photo's and music."

IBM and Microsoft Head Out on "Meet Me" Tour

In August, IBM and Microsoft announced a national mall tour to showcase Windows Me and the overall benefits and solutions that the new platform will offer consumers. Beginning today, customers will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on product demonstrations of IBM NetVista and ThinkPad hardware by visiting the IBM/Microsoft display at their local malls. Consumers can experience Windows Me enhanced by leading-edge, IBM NetVista features such as:

Music Match - allows customers to record their CDs in MP3 format and organize their MP3 playlists;

IBM Backup and Restore - one-button, automatic restore function that saves critical data, applications and configurations in the event of a software glitch, at no additional cost to the consumer;

Data Transfer - a tool to ensure the safe and easy transfer of data from an old PC to a new PC, at no additional cost;

Software select CD - a CD supplied with the IBM computer that allows customers to customize applications depending on your needs, without cluttering your desktop;

Internet Suite - located on the software select CD, users can select their choice of browsers, trial versions of ISPs and download RealPlayer, which lets the consumer experience a range of cool audio and video content, and;