Article Abstract:
Microsoft Corp plans to sell its Access database management program at only $99 from its release in Nov, 1992, to Jan 31, 1993, a discount of 86 percent, in order to undercut its competitor, Borland International Inc. Access is Microsoft's entry into the market for microcomputer database management systems. Microsoft expects Access to compete directly with Borland's Paradox for Windows, which is expected to be released in late 1992. The company's strategy is to reach influential database users before Borland does. The product is Microsoft's first database for Windows, and is expected to be easy enough to use that beginners can write their own databases. Customers will be able to buy the program from Microsoft directly, or through dealers, and dealers are expected to offer another discount on top of the manufacturer's discount. The company may also offer a discount for the European market.
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Intel Corp, Microsoft Corp and General Instrument Corp announce plans to develop interactive equipment for TV. The companies' first effort will combine an Intel 80386 microprocessor with a variation of Microsoft Windows software in a General Instrument converter box for cable TV. Shipment of the new product, expected to sell for about $300 apiece, is expected for mid-1994. The new converter box would allow TV users to bank, shop, obtain stock quotes and airline schedules and perform other activities. The alliance is a bid to expand the market for interactive services to TV users; however, the likely demand for such services is unknown. Currently, only personal computer users hooked into online services can perform such tasks. Rivals in the interactive TV market include Time Warner Inc, HP, IBM and GTE Corp.
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Microsoft Corp abandons its goal of controlling the printer software market, shutting down its printer-business unit and accepting the resignation of the unit's chief, Cal Bauer. Printer software is a niche market dominated by Adobe Systems Inc, but two years ago, Microsoft set out to challenge Adobe for that market. Adobe's stock collapsed when the giant Microsoft's plans were revealed, but over time the small company proved able to hold its own. Now Microsoft is backing away, planning to concentrate its attentions on enhancing its popular Windows program. According to a spokesperson for Microsoft: 'Just because we're Microsoft, it doesn't mean we win all the time.'
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