Microsoft to move into retail

In a surprise move, Microsoft has announced that it will be opening a line of branded shops. The stores will sell a range of Windows PCs and mobile phones. 

The firm have hired David Porter, an executive from the movie studio Dreamworks and previous WalMart executive, to oversee the operation.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/feb/13/microsoft-stores

Microsoft Office to debut online

Next year, Word, Excel and some other Microsoft programs will be available online, allowing users access to the programs via a web browser rather than installing them on their computer.

Some of the programs will be free provided that users are happy to view advertising alongside.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7772869.stm