Microsoft goes 'Live'

Finally acknowledging Google as a major competitor, Bill Gates unveiled the 'live era' of software this week. This means new Web-based services will complement already established Microsoft software, such as Office. For example, someone would be able to use the components and features of an Office product entirely online, without the software natively installed on their system. This seems to be Microsoft's way of acknowledging that making consumers buy multiple copies of software for the computers in your house and at work is a bit frustrating.

In addition, it rolled out its new Web portal (strikingly similar to the Google portal, which has been around for awhile). If you use Microsoft branded products for your email, instant messaging and such, it could be a pretty useful resource. But, unfortunately for Gates and company, the opening hours weren't without problems and the initial reaction is tepid, at best.