Although it collapsed, Oracle took the software core from the NC development and created Liberate Technologies. The old Network Computer subsidiary eventually went into the software business and was renamed Liberate Technologies. However, some analysts wonder whether the time, or the price, is right. International Data Corp. analyst Bryan Ma shared Sargent's skepticism about the price. NICC plans to announce a deal next week to offer free Internet service through NetZero.
Consumers can also use their existing service providers if they choose.
Salort said NICC will aim to get revenue from sales driven through e-commerce sites and service partners. Creative Strategies analyst Tim Bajarin said the NIC faces plenty of competition, including early leader Netpliance and heavyweights Intel and Microsoft. Bajarin said he expects there will eventually be a huge market for Internet appliances, but widespread consumer adoption of the devices is probably still several years away. Who will dominate at that point is anyone's guess. Inc. All rights reserved.