Microsoft Pre-paid Computer!

In many countries, including India, it is a common sight to see Windows and other microsoft software being peddled for as low as 1 or 2 dollars. Well, not just Microsoft software. But then, you can't expect someone in India to pay the same price as one would pay in US, when income levels are so disparate. And, it would be sometime for piracy to be compaletly eradicated. Mac Donalds knew about it, and because of their pricing strategy, we don't have to eat pirated Big Mac, Thank god.

Microsoft cannot price their software like Mac D did, they decided that they will start selling Softwares the pre-paid way, taking a leaf out of the pre-paid mobile revolution. Their latest offering "pay-as-you-go personal computing offerings powered by Microsoft FlexGo technology", is a pay-as-use model for their software.

With the FlexGo, they want to help the emerging economies of the world. In their words,

The pay-as-you-go business model makes PCs more accessible by dramatically reducing the entry cost and enabling customers to pay for their computer as they use it, through the purchase of prepaid cards. Market trials are starting first in emerging markets where inadequate access to consumer credit, unpredictable income and high entry costs prevent many consumers from purchasing a computer. The FlexGo technology supports Microsoft’s global commitment to help people realize their potential through the benefits of personal computers.[read more]