 Microsoft-Yahoo Combination Could Reshape Web
If Microsoft and Yahoo combine together, they may develop and reshape the Internet landscape for millions of Web users. Now the questions arise - would the two companies join their online portals? Could they rethink the desktop computer to integrate web content more directly?
The changes are potentially huge and it can't be possible in the short term.
Executives of Microsoft did not clear that what would they do with Yahoo's brand if their bid, valued at $42 billion, is accepted. Analysts expect the combined companies will preserve many of their separate free services, like instant-messaging and e-mail programs.
Some of Microsoft's Web content, which has vast collection of news and features might fade away or get added to Yahoo.
The rank of MSN portal (The Microsoft Network), collection of internet services provided by Microsoft is third, trailing only Yahoo and Google.
Consumers who access the Web on cell phones and handheld computers might be the first to find something new as a result of a Microsoft-Yahoo combination. New ideas to compete with Google's Web presence. Google is also leading development of an alternative cell-phone operating system it calls Android. Microsoft and Yahoo combine together might be able to rethink the PC desktop - where Windows still runs 90 percent of the world's PCs - so that Internet data such as stock prices, sports scores and weather are automatically baked in.
Microsoft, whose chairman is Bill Gates might also use Yahoo's online strengths to galvanize Web-based versions of some of its powerful desktop software applications, like Word and Excel. Jerry Yang is CEO of Yahoo.
Now Yahoo could be the face through which Microsoft offers those online applications.
Analyst David Mitchell Smith believes the biggest change from a Microsoft-Yahoo deal probably will be the one most Web surfers don't notice. That will come as the companies try to broaden their ability to deliver ads all over the Internet, wherever it reaches. |
News / Gossips by jdchuck
