The distinction is crucial, because Microsoft knows software much better than it knows media. We've gotten used to Microsoft dominating software categories such as word processors and spreadsheets. But Microsoft does not enjoy the ubiquity on the web that is has on personal computers. But the rollout of Hotmail to AltaVista is perhaps a harbinger of Microsoft applying its strength, software, into winning on the Internet. After all, Hotmail is simply web-based software.
Instant messaging is the same.
Microsoft looks to be building a suite of online software applications that it can license out to thousands of users at a time, through web portals. Expect more deal like AltaVista's to come. We are talking to a wide range of OEMs, ISPs and web sites about working with us to license these platforms. We are doing this today with our travel platform. American Express and a couple of airlines are using essentially the same back end that we have with Expedia.