Surf PC-free with Microsoft's 'Web Companion'

Microsoft previewed a new "Internet appliance" designed to give consumers easy access to the Web - without a computer.

The MSN Web Companion will let users access Web-based services, such as Web browsing and e-mail, using Windows CE as its operating system and Microsoft's MSN service to get onto the Internet.

The cost of the device will be discounted with an MSN subscription, the company said.

It was not immediately clear if Microsoft would sell the MSN Web Companion under its own brand, license it to manufacturers, or both. The device will reportedly be available in desktop or portable models and is expected to ship sometime in the middle of next year.

The full story can be found at www.zdnn.com.