Microsoft to focus on web experience

Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer today said that the software giant, moving ahead, will focus on online and web properties and deliver non-PC experience.

"Success in this business comes from design and user interface. While we have been a software and applications developer company, in the past few years we have invested in online and web properties. We will invest in non-PC experience, like providing software for mobile handsets and TV sets," Ballmer told a conference in Mumbai.

The world's largest software maker announced the launch of its Silverlight software programme in India.

This programme allows users to integrate with existing web technologies and assets.

HDFC Bank and the Subhash Chandra-promoted Indian Cricket League (ICL) will use Silverlight for their websites.

ICL president Kapil Dev said, "We plan to use the internet as a huge medium to reach out to enthusiasts and fans with live broadcast, recorded highlights, scoreboards, statistics, charts, giving them an alternative channel to enjoy matches as they happen."

Microsoft is working with ICL to enable a rich online experience, to provide innovative features that will allow internet users to switch between multiple camera angle, broadcast feeds and statistical elements.

There will also be interactive tools to allow viewers to judge the fate of a player when a third umpire's decision is called for.

Tarun Gulati, general manager, Microsoft India, said, "Many companies in India and across the world are using path-breaking customer experience as a competitive advantage for their businesses. We believe that Microsoft's products will allow companies to take this to the next level in an easy, cost effective manner."