Offer Lets New Users of Windows CE-Based Palm-Size PCs Get on the Web Easily and Affordably

Redmond, Wash. - Nov. 1, 1999 - Microsoft Corp. today announced the Windows® CE Web on the Go promotion, enabling new users of Windows CE-based color Palm-size PCs to easily and affordably connect to the Web any time and from anywhere. Customers who purchase a Windows CE-based color Palm-size PC between Oct. 15, 1999, and Jan. 31, 2000, can - for just $49 - get the Web on the Go kit, which includes the new Xircom CompactCard Modem 56 for Windows CE-based Palm-size and handheld PCs, more than 10 mobile software programs, and special offers on wireless add-ons, saving them more than $100 for Web access with their Palm-size PC.

The Web on the Go kit has an estimated retail value of more than $150 but is available for $49 with a Web on the Go mail-in coupon and proof of purchase of a Microsoft® Windows CE-based color Palm-size PC. The mail-in coupon and more details about the promotion can be obtained at select retail stores or at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsce/webonthego/.

"Customers are using Windows CE-based Palm-size PCs to do more than keep their schedule and contact information - they're also accessing the Web," said Rogers Weed, marketing director for the Personal Appliance Division at Microsoft. "The Web on the Go promotion gives customers one kit with everything needed to easily and affordably get Internet access on their color Palm-size PC, and at a great price."

The Web on the Go kit includes the following:

• Xircom CompactCard Modem 56. Valued at $149, the newly launched CompactCard Modem 56 gives users of Windows CE high-speed V.90, 56Kbps modem connectivity to the Internet, e-mail and office networks, enabling them to communicate, and synchronize and exchange information worldwide.
• Wireless and synchronization software
• Microsoft Communication Kit. This new software has a wizard that helps customers create a dial-up connection with their ISP or corporate network to provide access to the Web as well as personal or business e-mail. If customers purchase the optional digital cellular-phone wireless add-on components (sold separately), this kit will help them set up the connection for wireless access to the Web and e-mail via a data-capable digital cellular phone.
• Microsoft ActiveSync® 3.0 technology. The latest version of this synchronization software streamlines initial installation and makes synchronization easier and more reliable.

• Web browser software
• Foliage iBrowser. This Web browser from Foliage Software Systems enables users to browse the Web anywhere they have their Palm-size PC and a phone line. In addition, by using the HTML capabilities in Microsoft Office 2000, customers can now view any Office document on their device.
• AvantGo. A Web-based information service providing access to the hottest Web sites, including Bloomberg, CNET, MapQuest, The New York Times and over 1,000 more.
• Microsoft Internet Explorer 5. Internet Explorer browser software helps users maximize their desktop Web experience.
• Discounts. Discounts from AT&T WorldNet and Mindspring for ISP services enable users to browse the Web and access their POP3 e-mail at the same rates they pay for PC Web access.

• Palm-size PC software
• Bsquare bTask. Users can navigate and close applications using bTask.
• Ansyr's Primer PDF Viewer. Users can try this 60-day beta trial version to view PDF documents on the Palm-size PC.
• Microsoft Pocket Streets maps. With this software, users can carry the maps they need with them and may never have to ask for directions again.
• Zio's PalmGolf. The world's only real-time 3-D golf game for Palm-size PCs allows users to enjoy real-time 3-D golf games and simulations of real courses in the palm of their hand.
• Games. New color versions of "Taipei," "FreeCell" and "Space Defense" are among the games included from Microsoft's Entertainment Pack for the Palm-size PC.

The promotion kit also includes special bonus offers on wireless add-on options, including discounts on cables for digital cellular phones from Xircom Inc., discounts on wireless CDMA modems and digital cellular phone cables from Socket Communications Inc., and discounts from Sprint Wireless on wireless data service. (Discounts are valid in the United States and Canada only and expire Jan. 31, 2000.)

Windows CE-based Palm-size PCs are mobile companions that give users the freedom to work more effectively, wherever their business takes them. Not only do they allow users to manage their day, access their address book, and read and reply to their e-mail, Palm-size PCs now provide rich 64K full-color displays and support CD-quality music, allowing customers to view maps and photos and listen to the latest music - anywhere. More information about

Windows CE-based Palm-size PCs and this promotion is available at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsce/.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software - any time, any place and on any device.

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