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AOL(America Online) unveils a $299 PC deal

http://zdnet.com.com/2100-1103_2-5113197.html

By Steven Musil
CNET News.com
December 4, 2003

America Online [is] offering a $299 bundle of PC
[who] sign up for its Internet service for one year.

to promote the offer
http://www.299pcdeal.com
which runs through Dec. 31

The "new AOL Optimized PC" is built by Systemax,
a Port Washington, N.Y.-based PC maker.

... includes a
1.7GHz Intel Celeron processor,
256MB of RAM and a 40GB hard drive,
17-inch monitor and color printer,
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
and Sun Microsystem's StarOffice software.

An AOL spokesman said the offer is a test program
being aimed directly at consumers who have limited
or no experience using the Internet.

If successful, the company will consider making similar offers
in the future, he said.

The move follows AOL's announcement that it plans
to launch a new discount Internet access service
under its Netscape brand to combat the growing threat
from both cheaper alternatives and speedier broadband...

The stripped-down service is expected to launch
in early 2004 for $9.95 a month and to offer fewer
[bells and whistles] found on AOL's $23.90 month service...

CNET News.com's Matt Hines contributed to this report.

Copyright ©2003 CNET Networks, Inc.