PC firms keep options open

Computer makers are testing the waters of browser choice by eschewing exclusivity with Internet Explorer.

CNET News staff

May 29, 1998 6:00 p.m. PT

Amid Microsoft's antitrust troubles, personal computer makers are testing the waters of browser choice by eschewing exclusivity, offering Netscape's Navigator along with Internet Explorer.

IBM will offer Netscape on Win 98
Big Blue will offer both Navigator and Internet Explorer browsers on its Aptiva consumer PCs.

NEC laptop doesn't bundle IE 4
The PC maker will begin selling a new portable with Windows 95 that has Microsoft's Web browser icon hidden.

Microsoft gives on Gateway
update Gateway's move to give users of its PCs more choice in selecting Internet browsers signals another concession by Microsoft.

Gateway offers financing, Net service
update The direct PC vendor debuts a financing program and a host of other while promoting its own Internet service.