The company describes the effort as a way to boost global
access to computing. Analysts say it also demonstrates Microsoft's desire to maintain its dominant position against stiff competition from free and inexpensive alternatives, such as the Linux
operating system.
Founder Bill Gates is announcing the "Microsoft Student Innovation Suite" today in Beijing, along with other new and expanded initiatives aimed at increasing computing in developing nations. As part of the effort, Microsoft will announce a goal of doubling the number of PC users around the world--adding 1 billion more people--by 2015.
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