Microsoft has rebranded its new office application suite and announced detailed information about seven different versions for both individuals and businesses.
The American software giant stated that Office 2007 features a completely new user interface and supports XML-based file formats. The main focus of the application suite is the SharePoint functionality. This technology serves as a web portal, capable of functioning both on the Internet and within intranets.
The highest-priced version is the Office Enterprise 2007 suite for businesses, priced at $499, developed using technology from Groove Networks, which Microsoft acquired in March 2005. The Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 version costs only $149 but does not include the Outlook email program, instead featuring the OneNote application. Additionally, Microsoft will introduce five other Office bundles priced between $149 and $499.
In light of the encroaching trend of “webification” of software (offering software as a service over the Internet) and the fierce competition from Yahoo and Google, Microsoft is striving to maintain Office and Windows, as they account for over half of the company’s revenue.
