Microsoft Corp. to scrap OS/2, refine Windows

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Corp will announce that it is discontinuing development of the OS/2 operating system, and in its place the firm will use much of OS/2's code to develop an advanced version of its Windows graphical user interface. Microsoft had pushed OS/2 as the eventual replacement for the DOS operating system, but the success of the Windows environment, which works in conjunction with DOS, has left the company working on two fronts. The decision will have massive repercussions throughout the computer industry, particularly in relations between Microsoft and IBM, which had been jointly developing OS/2. Many observers say that Microsoft is exerting its muscle as the dominant player in deciding the future of the microcomputer market. Left in the lurch will be the many rival software companies that have committed resources to developing applications for OS/2, which is now essentially a dead platform.

Computer software industry, Software, Microcomputers, Operating systems (Software), Operating systems, Product discontinuation, GUI, Graphical user interfaces, Operating System, Microcomputer, Strategic Planning, OS/2 Presentation Manager (GUI), OS/2 (Operating system)

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Microsoft Corp. will acquire Fox Software

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Corp is acquiring Fox Software Inc, and its data base software products, in a securities transfer valued at $173 million, Microsoft's largest such transaction to date. The Fox acquisition fills Microsoft's last gap in the software market and puts it in direct and aggressive competition with Borland International Inc, the major player in the data base field. Borland's stock fell $7.25 a share to $63 after the Microsoft announcement, but Borland executives do not fear the acquisition, stating that the competition will now be more focused than before. Microsoft's stock closed down $1 at $127.50 a share. Fox Software head David Fulton will supervise all of Microsoft's data base development, including the products Microsoft had planned before the acquisition was announced. Microsoft and Fox products will not be completely compatible but will 'read' one another.

Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Compatibility, Competition, Computer Software Industry, Stock, Acquisition, Data Base Producers, Fox Software Inc., Securities Transfer

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Two new Microsoft products are likely to put more pressure on competitors

Article Abstract:

Microsoft is ready to release two products that will enhance pressure on competitors in both the spreadsheet and pen-based computing arenas. Microsoft Excel for Windows 4.0 is expected to increase the developer's lead in the Windows spreadsheet market. Lotus Development introduced its first Windows version of Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows in 1991; reviewers were disappointed by the product. Excel sales rose in the months following the Lotus rollout. Microsoft's spreadsheet business has also been aided by Borland International's delay in delivering a Windows version of its Quattro Pro spreadsheet. Industry analysts said that the new Microsoft offering should enhance Microsoft's lead in the spreadsheet marketplace, which is worth over $1 billion annually.

Product introduction, Product Announcement, Spreadsheets, Spreadsheet software, Pen-based computers, Pen-based I/O, Microsoft Excel for Windows 4.0 (Spreadsheet software)

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