Microsoft launches Web-based Office, rivals Google
Microsoft, CEO Steve Ballmer launches Microsoft Office 365, in New York. Office 365 brings together Microsoft Office with SharePoint, Exchange and Lync Online for a monthly subscription. (June 28, 2011) Credit: AP
Microsoft has officially launched its Web-based email and Office services, part of its ongoing effort to keep Google at bay when it comes to business software.
"Office 365" has been available in a test version since last year. It combines Web-based versions of Word, Excel and other Office applications. It also includes the Exchange e-mail system, SharePoint online collaboration technology and Microsoft's instant messaging, Internet phone and video conferencing system.
Google Inc. has its own set of office software that's based in the "cloud," that is, hosted on remote servers and accessed online instead of on users' desktop computers.
Microsoft Corp. said Tuesday that it plans to charge $2 to $27 per month for Office 365 depending on what's included. Google Apps costs $4 or $5 per month.
'I've never seen fire sitting on the water' Three Newsday photographers talk to NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland about covering the tragic crash of TWA Flight 800 in 1996.
'I've never seen fire sitting on the water' Three Newsday photographers talk to NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland about covering the tragic crash of TWA Flight 800 in 1996.
