Today, we announced that Windows Live OneCare will no longer be sold and instead, Microsoft will be providing free of charge, a Microsoft Antivirus/Anti-spyware/Anti-malware software & service solution currently codenamed “Morro”.
This will effectively provide antivirus, antispyware, and antimalware protection to ANYONE running a genuine copy of Windows worldwide.
WHY?
The key to why this move was made lies in the last word in that sentence: “Worldwide’. THe fact is that most developing countries like China don’t have the ability to subscribe to security services that have a annual payment model. Because malware is a worldwide problem, Microsoft is making this service free to eliminate this obstacle and ensure everyone gets access to malware protection.
IS “MORRO” JUST “FREE ONECARE”?
No, “Morro” is not OneCare. It will be tuned for low-bandwidth, less powerful PCs to reach & secure as many people as possible.
WHEN?
Second half of 2009.
More information:
- Microsoft PR Announcement: “Q&A: Improving Global Access to Core PC Protection”
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2008/Nov08/11-18AmyBarzdukasQandA.mspx - Microsoft PR Announcement: “Microsoft Announces Plans for No-Cost Consumer Security Offering”
http://www.microsoft.com/Presspass/press/2008/nov08/11-18NoCostSecurityPR.mspx - OneCare Announcement Press Kit:
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/presskits/onecare/default.mspx - Windows Live OneCare Blog:
http://windowsonecare.spaces.live.com/blog/cns!C29701F38A601141!10418.entry
kurtsh
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