AOL introduces Netscape Tech for Mac Users

NEW YORK: America Online unveiled a new version of its service for Mac users that integrates browser technology from AOL's Netscape unit instead of rival Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer. AOL, the struggling online business of AOL Time Warner Inc. has been testing the Netscape browser technology, called Gecko, in some of its services such as CompuServe.

Analysts have said it may be a move toward using it soon in its AOL service, used by 35 million subscribers, perhaps recharging the browser wars with rival Microsoft, which took the dominant position from Netscape several years ago. "This one also uses Gecko and it looks like it's quite stable. It's certainly a way for them to kick the tires (for other versions)," said Jupiter Research analyst David Card.

The latest version of the Internet service for Mac OS X users also looks and feels much more like the latest Macintosh operating system, with its glowing buttons and translucent menus on a redesigned tool bar. "They have tarted it up and made it look like a MAC application. It finally does have HTML mail so you can read mail that has pictures and colors," Card said.

The version also offers more programming for those with high-speed connections and integrates Apple Computer Inc.'s Quicktime media player to stream content and audio for high-speed users. "As with any new release, we want to make sure new people want to use the product," Gang said. Subscriber growth for AOL's dial-up Internet service has slowed, opening the division to criticism by industry analysts that its strategy to migrate its members to more costly high-speed access is unclear.

The online division's new chief, Jon Miller, will have to articulate a strategy to recharge growth and to build the company's high-speed initiative.

© Reuters