In January, we moved that prediction up to 2000. This week, Pasadena-based Free PC, announced it would give free PCs to people willing to endure targeted advertising. There are a lot of obstacles in the company's way, not the least of which is the fact that PCs are in no way as easy to use as cell phones. Moreover, while cell phone companies make their money on metered use, Free PC is entirely dependent on advertising. But interest in new marketing channels is pushing this particular envelope forward.
More powerful solutions are on the way.
The return to faster growth comes not a moment too soon for soul-searching sites. As noted before, combining online and offline media surged considerably in fourth quarter. The eretailing '99 conference advantage lies in its focus.