Mr. Show Biz; for Microsoft's Bob Bejan, a veteran of song, stage, and film, the simple question is this: what is interactive entertainment, anyway?

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Network Executive Producer Bob Bejan, veteran of the film, stage, music, and arcade industries, is leading the software giant's $400 million annual investment in online media. Bejan's job is like that of a Hollywood studio producer, choosing which interactive 'shows' will go into development, and guiding the overall look and feel of the Microsoft Network. Although the field of interactive entertainment is a new one, with no proven strategies, Mr. Began looks for several qualities in proposals: strong graphics and audio components, good storylines, and interactivity. MSN features channels, like television, with shows including soap operas, a magazine for Generation X, a live music section, and a planned series of week-long dramas. Bejan also made a deal with Jim Henson Productions to bring the Muppets to the Microsoft Network. Bejan's previous endeavors include the touring stage show of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and an innovative interactive movie venture.

Officials and employees, Software, Internet, Interactive media, Interactive technology, Company Employee

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Microsoft has plan to meet a U.S. move

Article Abstract:

Microsoft is creating back-up plans to deal with possible Justice Department demands to remove software that accesses the proposed Microsoft Network from the Windows 95 operating system. The Justice Department has not yet prohibited the sale of the bundled products and Microsoft does not intend to remove the access software voluntarily. Microsoft claims that it is being harassed by the Justice Department and won support from Sen Robert Dole for their position. In an unusual move intended to quiet competitors' fears, Microsoft is also distributing research from Dataquest estimating that the Microsoft Network will only have 1.3 million subscribers by year end 1995 and 2.6 million by 1996. An outstanding market performance would net Microsoft Network 3 million subscribers by 1996, equivalent to America Online, which leads the market. Microsoft already has manuals and packaging materials completed that include material on the on-line access capability.

Product information, Services, Operating system, Operating systems (Software), Marketing, Political activity, Investigations, United States. Department of Justice, Distribution, Company marketing practices, Dole, Bob, Microsoft Windows 95 (Operating system), Company Distribution Practices

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Revamped Microsoft Network unveiled

Article Abstract:

Microsoft has introduced a new version of the Microsoft Network Web-based online service that adds animation and news feeds but that can only be used with Microsoft's Internet Explorer 3.0 browser and Windows 95. Charges are $19.95 a month for unlimited Internet access and $6.95 for information access alone, which serves users who get their Internet access elsewhere. The Slate online political magazine is available for free on a separate Web site that can be viewed with any browser or operating system. The requirement that Windows 95 and Internet Explorer 3.0 be used could possibly limit the market for the new service. Netscape and other Web and online services also work with earlier versions of Windows and with other Web browsers. The network uses the new program viewer in the browser's top layer to move users to content areas with one or two mouse clicks.

Product Announcement, Online services, Product enhancement

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