IBM CONSUMER Pcs SHINE with WINDOWS MILLENNIUM Submitted By: Pleon Friday, 15 September 2000

IBM CONSUMER PCs SHINE WITH WINDOWS MILLENNIUM Submitted by: Pleon Friday, 15 September 2000

-Consumers to benefit from features that simplify computing, and enhances connectivity- IBM today announced that its new lineup of ThinkPad i-series notebooks and NetVista desktop personal computers designed for consumers is optimised for the new Windows Millennium Edition operating system, unveiled yesterday by Microsoft. The IBM notebooks and desktops mark the creation of a portfolio of technologies and integrated help and support, that IBM will offer consumers to enable them get the most out of the latest Microsoft operating platform. Windows Me will be pre-loaded onto certain models of IBM's ThinkPad I Series 1200, and the recently announced NetVista A20i and A40i desktops. IBM has invested significant time and resources to prepare its products and help migrate customers quickly, easily and reliably to Windows Me. To meet the needs of its customers, IBM will be offering upgrade kits to users who have purchased selected** IBM Aptiva, PC 300, NetVista and ThinkPad i-Series products on or after July 15, 2000 to October 15, 2000 in certain countries***, with Windows 98 Second Edition pre-installed. The IBM Upgrade Kit will include the Windows Me operating system upgrade CD and the Windows Me Quickstart Guide with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) sticker. Customers can purchase the upgrade kits, at a specially discounted IBM price, through November 15, 2000 by visiting http://www.mil.upgrade-now.com "IBM and Microsoft recognise that customers demand complete functionality out of their computer systems, whether in their home, office or on the road. IBM ThinkPads and NetVista desktops offer consumers the choices they need to match their personal computing style and preferences at a

Page 1 price that's right," said Ralph Martino, vice president of marketing & strategy, IBM Personal Systems Group. "Customers will find that IBM innovations are designed to work in concert with Windows Me to offer consumers a valuable e-lifestyle computing experience." Consumers can experience Windows Me enhanced by leading-edge, IBM NetVista features such as: · Music Match - allows customers to record their CDs in MP3 format and organise their MP3 playlists; · Easy Backup - one-button, automatic restore function that saves critical data, applications and configurations in the event of a software glitch, at no additional cost to the consumer; · System Transfer - a tool to ensure the safe and easy transfer of data from an old PC to a new PC, at no additional cost; · Software select CD - a free CD that allows customers to customise applications depending on your needs, without cluttering your desktop; · Internet Suite - located on the software select CD, users can select their choice of browsers, trial versions of ISPs and download RealPlayer, which lets the consumer experience a range of cool audio and video content, and; · "Access IBM" keys - on-system, simple, rapid access to help, support, product information and software tools. For more information about Windows Millennium Edition, customers can visit http://www.microsoft.com/windowsme - ends -

Page 2 Ref No: 00/306 Editors Notes: About the IBM Personal Systems Group The IBM Personal Systems Group (PSG) is a worldwide provider of complete, networked personal computing solutions. IBM PSG offers a variety of products, solutions and services including ThinkPad mobile PCs, Netfinity servers, NetVista desktop PCs, Intellistation NT-workstations, IBM thin clients, and IBM monitors and options to customers of all sizes. PSG offerings combine high performance technologies with leading-edge quality, design, support and services. IBM Personal Systems products and services are available direct from IBM and through a worldwide network of authorised IBM Business Partners. For more information on IBM Personal System Group products, services and solutions, including prices and availability, visit the PSG Web site at http://www.ibm.com or call 0870 010 2512. All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners. *IBM list price reflects normal IBM web price. Special promotional price reflects $100 savings valid through September 30, 2000 on specific models only. Prices shown are available from IBM directly; reseller prices may vary. Price does not include tax or shipping and is subject to change without notice. **Customers can verify whether their IBM computer is eligible for an upgrade by checking the Qualifying Systems List online at http://www.pc.ibm.com/ww/software/alliances/windowsme/upgrade.html

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