Microsoft Launches Ad-Supported Works 9, But Good Luck Finding It

Sometimes, Microsoft does something that is worth bragging about, so we hear about it everywhere. Other times, they do something different and don’t want anyone to know about. This is one of those times, with the initial test of offering ad-supported software. The software in question is Works 9, a lightweight Office (it’s rare to see good reviews on the product).

The idea is simple. Offer up the application with small ads displayed within the word processor and spreadsheet editor and get paid that way, rather than straight out of the users pocket. It’s hard to say now, but this could be something small that will turn into something huge at some point. Works is a very small product, and at only $35 retail, Microsoft is not taking too much of a risk here.

The interesting thing is how quiet the company is keeping. Right now, you can only acquire the product with a new PC, but good luck finding out which new PC. According to the Beyond Binary blog, Packard Bell is offering it on a few systems in the UK, while Sony is offering it within the US. It will still require a keen eye to spot, however.

Microsoft remains cagey on the details of where you can find Works SE. The company has been testing Works SE in 5 countries: The United States, France, Canada, Poland and the United Kingdom. It is available only through select computer makers and Microsoft won’t say which computer makers those are.

Source: Beyond Binary