Clearing Microsoft's path to digital TV

Article Abstract:

Craig Mundie is leading Microsoft's separate vision of digital broadcasting, which differs from that of TV broadcasters and manufacturers. Microsoft is proposing a Windows software-based technology that would fold the Internet and other data services into TV, forming one interactive information and entertainment medium. TV networks and broadcasters, meanwhile, have been touting high-definition television's (HDTV) ultra-sharp pictures and TV sets first priced at about $10,000. Mundie initially was branded an outsider as late as 1997, but Microsoft has benefitted from some reversals in 1998. Walt Disney's ABC network and News Corp's Fox shifted in Apr 1998 from HDTV to Microsoft's digital strategy. Tele-Communications (TCI) announced in Jan 1998 that it would adopt Microsoft software for its digital set-top boxes, which TCI plans to distribute to cable TV customers later in 1998. Sony and Microsoft introduced an Apr 1998 plan to work together despite their backing of different digital-TV formats.

Planning, Television broadcasting industry, Marketing, Company marketing practices, Company technology development, Company business planning, Digital television, High definition television, High-definition television

---

Microsoft net climbed 28% for 4th period

Article Abstract:

Microsoft reported net income of $1.36 billion, or 50 cents a diluted share, for the 4th qtr 1998 ended Jun 30. This represents a 28% increase over the 4th qtr 1997's total of $1.06 billion, or 40 cents a diluted share. The software giant surpassed a Wall Street forecast of 48 cents a share but equaled the informal whisper number of 50 cents. Revenue leaped from $3.18 billion in the 4th qtr 1997 to $4 billion in the 4th qtr 1998 for a 26% gain. Microsoft, despite not introducing any significant new offerings, surprised analysts with the momentum of Office 97 and Windows 98. CFO Greg Maffei attributed the performance to PC sales that exceeded expectations. Slower growth should continue until Microsoft rolls out Office 2000 and Windows NT 5.0 in 2000. Microsoft's earnings jumped by around 26% from 1997, compared to 51% in the first half of 1997.

Finance, Company sales/revenue, Company sales and earnings, Company earnings/profit

---

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Earnings up 58% in quarter for Microsoft. Microsoft poses a riddle for the street. Novell net more than doubled in first quarter
• Abstracts: Many doors to Microsoft's new Windows. Microsoft adding to Java and to Sun rift. Microsoft sees a major shift for computers
• Abstracts: Upcoming book to provide grist at the Microsoft trial; company intends to shift focus to Netscape
• Abstracts: Netscape estimates an operating loss on Microsoft rivalry, as stock falls 21%
• Abstracts: Knowing the ABCs of the antitrust case against Microsoft. Microsoft programs for the Web, E-mail outscore Netscape's

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.