Microsoft is offering a low-cost, scaled-down version of its student software in developing countries to help billions of poor people access computer technology, the company said April 19.
A Student Innovation Suite including Windows XP, Office, and Learning Essentials 2.0 will be sold to "qualifying governments" beginning later this year for three dollars a unit.
"All human beings deserve a chance to achieve their full potential," Microsoft chairman Bill Gates said while announcing the program in Beijing.
"Bringing the benefits of technology to the next five billion people will require new products that meet the needs of under-served communities; creative, new business approaches that make technology more relevant, accessible and affordable; and close collaboration between local governments, educational institutions and community organisations." The discounted software offer is an expansion of Microsoft's Unlimited Potential program aimed at accelerating the adoption of computer technology in developing countries.
"Given the immense challenge of bridging the digital divide, the industry will have to take a comprehensive approach to providing computing to the 'next billion' people," said Endpoint Technologies analyst Roger Kay.
"Strategies with the greatest potential will involve collaboration among many players, including governments, NGOs, commercial carriers, financing entities, local providers, services organisations, and hardware and software vendors."
Analysts also saw Microsoft's philanthropy as helping the Redmond, Washington-based company entrench its position as the world's top software company by cultivating the devotion of billions of new computer users.
Microsoft also announced an alliance with the Asian Development Bank to bolster the use of Internet and computer technology to increase competitiveness and sustainable economic development of the Asia-Pacific region.
"Information communication technology holds significant promise for poverty reduction, ADB's overarching goal," said Development Bank Vice President Larry Greenwood.
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