New Microsoft OS: Simplicity is key

Microsoft has gone public with information on its next two consumer operating systems, saying simplicity will be the main focus of the OSes.

Code-named Millennium and Neptune, the two systems will offer a more straightforward user interface while integrating support for new hardware and Internet features, a company spokesperson said.

Microsoft has acknowledged that its prior consumer offerings have been overly complex and hard to use.

Officials say Millennium, intended for release in 2000, will also focus on digital media, home networking, and providing a better Web experience.

Millennium will be the first release from Microsoft in its Easy PC joint initiative with Intel, sources say. Easy PC is aimed at creating a less-complex PC while encouraging innovative hardware designs. The PC in this vision completely hides MS-DOS and only uses technology such as USB, IEEE 1394, and Device Bay for expansion.

Neptune will not be released until 2001, at the earliest.

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