I read an article yesterday about Microsoft planning to release a stripped down version of Windows, Office, and other software to people in developing countries. Bill Gates announced the plan this past Thursday in Beijing. Gates' plan is to expand Microsoft products to people with a lack of access to computers and to span to markets that haven't been tapped yet. These developing countries are interested in technology, but have little disposable income.
Some countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Nigeria are participating in a nonprofit project called "One Laptop per Child". This project targets school children and would price laptops at $100 and run a free operating system of Linux.
The $3 software called Microsoft Unlimited Potential is going to be marketed in all developing countries and to their school systems. The standard retail price for comparable software would be $150 in the United States.
Microsoft Unlimited Potential will be offered to low income communities in developed countries like the United States, as well. Households earning about $15,000 a year on average would qualify for the $3 software.
I believe Microsoft is making a great gesture by offering $3 software to developing countries. Helping these under privledged children gain access to today's technology will benefit the world on a global scale.
HTMBaLLuH
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