Internet Explorer 9 Preview
PROS: Microsoft is finally addressing standards support and performance issues from IE 8
CONS: It's too early to tell whether this browser will be better
RATING: N/A
RECOMMENDATION: While Microsoft won't show off a usable version of its next web browser, Internet Explorer 9, until the MIX conference in March 2010, the company did provide a very early preview in late 2009. And while we have no hints about where Microsoft is going with IE 9's UI, what we did see is heartening: The company is going to focus on performance—real-world performance, not just for benchmarks—better standards support, and, interestingly, hardware-accelerated rendering. If Microsoft can make good on its performance and standards support, the company will go a long ways towards fixing the big customer complaints from IE 8.
CONTACT: Microsoft • 800-426-9400
DISCUSSION: SuperSite for Windows
Office 2010 Starter Edition
PROS: A free version of Office with basic Word and Excel functionality that will meet the needs of many users
CONS: Advertising-supported, utilizes the old Office 2007 UI, can't access crucial Word or Excel functionality
RATING: 4 out of 5 stars
RECOMMENDATION: Office 2010 Starter edition includes basic versions of Word and Excel only and will replace Microsoft Works. It will be provided only to customers who purchase new PCs. It’s advertising supported and features a simplified version of the standard ribbon UI. But the big deal is that Office 2010 Starter is absolutely free and unless you need some crucial but advanced features (like reviewing from Word), it will likely meet most people's needs. Best of all, you can electronically upgrade to a more capable version. The final version is due in June 2010.
CONTACT: Microsoft • 800-426-9400
DISCUSSION: SuperSite for Windows