Microsoft, RealNames develop Net keyword standard

By Acheron March 14, 2000 11:20 AM

     Print Story

(Yahoo) Taking a page from America Online's popular "keyword" system, Microsoft wants to make surfing the Web as easy as typing a single word.?The software giant will take a 20 percent stake in software maker RealNames and will push for new standards to simplify Web navigation, the company is scheduled to announce today.?RealNames, which substitutes short "keywords" for complicated Internet addresses, or URLs, already offers its service through Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser and MSN Web portal.?Microsoft announced the inclusion of RealNames in its Web browser software last year in a series of initiatives to jump-start its stalled MSN Internet effort.?RealNames' service is an Internet equivalent to America Online's popular keyword system, part of its proprietary online service.?The system allows AOL members to type a common phrase to find specific content channels.?"I think they've shown that can be successful within their community," Forrester Research analyst Josh Walker said in reference to AOL.?"And I think that's likely what Microsoft is trying to emulate here." Read More.

Tweet This Now!