Microsoft Offers Award-Winning MSN Internet Access Service To Consumers Via Significant Promotions

REDMOND, Wash., Dec. 22, 1999 — Microsoft Corp. today announced agreements with Office Depot Inc. and OfficeMax Inc. to deliver major rebates on personal computers when combined with a subscription to MSN TM Internet Access. Consumers who sign up for a 36-month contract with MSN Internet Access may receive a $400 rebate to apply toward the purchase of a personal computer system or other merchandise. This is the latest in a series of alliances between Microsoft and leading PC retailers and OEMs designed to further the MSN vision of the Everyday Web, which provides consumers with easy access to the information and services they want any time, anywhere and on any device.

“This is an extremely affordable way for families and small businesses to purchase a new PC through trusted hardware retailers and get online through our award-winning MSN Internet Access service,”
said Deanna Sanford, lead product manager for MSN Marketing in Microsoft’s Consumer Group.
“A key to achieving our Everyday Web vision is to bring the benefits of the Internet to everyone. The Office Depot and OfficeMax offers provide the perfect means for consumers to get connected to the best of the Web.”

MSN Internet Access Promotions Help Extend the Internet to Everyone

These special offers aim to make it easier and more affordable for consumers to purchase a computer and get connected to the Internet. They help ensure that more American families will enter the 21st century with the convenience and educational advantages of a home PC and the Internet.

Microsoft has received an overwhelming response from existing PC programs, with hundreds of thousands of consumers signing up for the reliable and affordable MSN Internet Access service. In addition to these new agreements, Microsoft recently announced plans for MSN Internet Access promotions with other leading PC retailers, including RadioShack, the retail operating format of Tandy Corp., Best Buy Company Inc. and Staples Inc.

Availability

The OfficeMax and Office Depot promotions are available now in stores across the United States. To get more information about these promotions, consumers can visit their nearest Office Depot or OfficeMax store. (Certain restrictions apply.)

About MSN Internet Access

MSN Internet Access works with Microsoft® Windows® 95- or 98-based PCs to provide a fast, reliable Internet connection so users can make the most of their time online. At the heart of MSN Internet Access is Microsoft Internet Explorer 5 browser software. This powerful software delivers a cleaner, more intuitive interface that allows users to spend less time figuring out how to use the Internet and more time getting things done online. MSN Internet Access offers award-winning e-mail functionality with Microsoft Outlook® Express, local phone numbers across the United States, 24×7 toll-free technical support and a customizable home page. Customers can order a free* one-month trial of MSN Internet Access by visiting http://free.MSN.com/ or by calling (800) FREE-MSN (373-3676).

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) is the worldwide leader in software for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software — any time, any place and on any device.

*Details of the MSN Internet Access offer: For users of Windows 95 or 98 operating systems only. You must additionally subscribe to MSN Internet Access in accordance with its member agreement to access the service. One-month trial offer is only available to new members in the 50 United States and the District of Columbia. A major credit card is required. After the trial period, the current price for the MSN Standard Unlimited Access Plan will be automatically charged to your credit card until you cancel your account or select an alternative plan. MSN is available only for personal noncommercial use. Additional phone and/or long-distance toll charges may apply. It is the customers’ responsibility to check with their phone company to determine if additional phone charges may apply. Local Market Network activity and capacity may affect access availability.

Microsoft, MSN and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

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