TECHNOLOGY - May 1, 1996

Microsoft Moves to the Net: The software giant said it will shift existing content from its online service to the Internet and offer breaking news at no cost to users of the World Wide Web. Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft Corp., which started its online service last year, is also implementing a new pricing plan for the rest of the Microsoft Network on the Web. The company said current Internet users can receive unlimited access to all MSN content and services for a flat fee of $6.95 a month. A special price of $39.95 for one year on this plan is also being offered until Aug. 31. The move is part of Microsoft’s strategy to shift its focus to the Web rather than offer a competing online service. As part of the initiative, MSN will shift existing online content to the Web, starting with MSN News.