Microsoft is also studying the launching of Office Server

Jul 29, 2005 11:32 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is already planning premium versions for Windows Vista and Office 12. Ballmer pointed out that thanks to the success of the premium version of Windows XP Professional, the company has decided to do the same for Vista.

Ballmer commented that Microsoft is already working on premium versions of Windows Vista and Office 12 and that they will be launched together with Windows Vista in 2006. Windows Vista will also have an enterprise version.

It is unknown yet in what way the premium version will be better than the regular one and Ballmer didn't disclose any details about this or about the costs.

Shocking his audience, Ballmer admitted that in this moment, Linux is the one setting the standards in the super-computing domain, but that Microsoft is planning to offer new server products aimed at changing this situation. Microsoft has also hired a new vice-president whose area of expertise will be precisely this domain.

Microsoft is also studying the launching of Office Server which will include security and e-mail services aimed at high-end clients.

By adding the new version, Ballmer believes that Windows and Office will record a significant sales increase.

Commenting on the company's acquisition policy, Ballmer said that in the period to come, Microsoft will focus on small companies. MSN and Windows Mobile 5.0 will play an important role in the company's future plans, Ballmer saying that significant growths are expected in the entertainment, online searches and cellular telephony sectors.