Netscape Makes a Push for Improved Internet System
Netscape Communications Corp. said it will equip the next version of its widely used Internet software with so-called push technology that delivers specific information to computer users over the Net.
The move adds an important new feature to Netscape’s array of products as the company tries to fend off Microsoft Corp. for domination of the market for Internet software used to surf the Web, send e-mail and perform other tasks.
Conceptually, push technology is as old as newspapers or television. But it is seen as an important advance in Internet communications because it automatically sends users news and other information they select.
Marc Andreessen, senior vice president of technology at Mountain View-based Netscape, said push technology will not replace browsers as the way most people experience the Internet, but will play an increasingly important role.
“If you’re trying to do research, you may not use it so much,” Andreessen said. “But if you want the latest news and sports information, it’s going to be a convenient way to do it.”
The Netcaster software will be bundled with the next release of Netscape’s Communicator software, which sells for $59 and includes the Navigator Web browser. It is scheduled to be shipped in June.
Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft has unveiled a push capability called Webcasting that is expected to be a component of the company’s Internet Explorer 4.0 product, due over the summer.
Analysts said Netscape may get a jump on Microsoft by being first to market with the new technology, but that the real threat is to a handful of small companies that offer products similar to Netcaster.
“It is worse for the small fries than for Microsoft,” said Ira Machefsky, an analyst at Giga Information Group in Santa Clara.
Users of push systems--whether Netscape’s or any other--generally subscribe to channels, or online sources of information. News updates or other items appear on their screens periodically, or are stored for viewing later.
The development means content providers don’t have to wait for random visits from Web browsers.
Netscape’s stock closed at $27.50 per share on the Nasdaq market Monday, up $1.625 per share.
