Mac OS X users will be able to get MSN Internet Access and new MSN client software with features such as parental controls and spam filtering beginning in early 2003. The move supports Microsoft's partnerships with broadband ISPs and could also attract new users to the service.

Currently, Mac users can only get MSN Internet Access (MSNIA) if they are on older operating systems and if they sign up through MSN partner Qwest, which offers ISP access in 14 western states. These users receive a simple dial-in client and must use separate software for tasks such as surfing the Web and handling e-mail.

This will change in early 2003, when any Mac OS X user in the United States will be able to get MSNIA. These users will receive new client software, MSN for OS X, containing an integrated e-mail client based on Entourage (Microsoft's native e-mail client for OS X); a Web browser based on Internet Explorer 5.2 for Mac and featuring built-in links to various MSN and partner sites; and some of the features also slated for the forthcoming MSN 8 client for Windows users, such as parental controls over children's Internet activities and improved spam filtering. MSNIA is also adding online and phone support for Mac users.

Echoing the business strategy for the MSN 8 client, the new client will also be offered to Mac OS X users of other ISPs for an undisclosed monthly fee (beyond what they already pay for Internet access).

The decision was probably spurred by MSN's deals with other ISPs, particularly Verizon, who want to transition all their customers to an MSN client but do not want to alienate Mac users in the process. This move has a precedent: Microsoft was required to deliver the dial-in client to Mac users as part of its deal with Qwest. MSN might also be targeting Mac users angry over Apple's decision to charge US$100 a year for a package of Web-based services (such as e-mail, virus protection, and data storage), some of which were previously free.

For background on MSN 8 and MSN's latest business strategy, see "MSN Refocuses on Client Software" on page 24 of the Sept. 2002 Update.