BT are to launch a broadband service based around the MSN 8 software, in another new partnership deal with Microsoft. This package represents the first major distribution of the MSN 8 software in Europe.
BT are hoping this will act as a "kickstart" for its broadband service and there will be a total of £2.5m spent on the agreement. With MSN 8 costing about £7/month in the UK the inclusion of the software as part of a package will be welcome news to some users who want the facilities (eg anti-spamming) provided by the software.
There have also been the announcements that in 2003 there will other similar packages available also bundling the MSN 8 software.
This is part of an ongoing partnership between Microsoft and BT. They have already made agreements to allow BT to distribute Microsoft Web software applications and a deal making BT"s main broadband package the backbone for Xbox Live in the UK.