Microsoft today announced that it is creating online services coupled with Windows and Office. This will open new opportunities for the company to sell subscriptions or advertising associated with its software. The offerings include Office Live, an online version of its Office suite of business productivity applications. The service is designed to make it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to set up and maintain Office than it is today. Windows Live and Office Live will be supported by online advertising, Mr. Gates said, though a subscription-based version of Office Live will also be available.

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