Microsoft Launches New Marketplace

Microsoft on Monday took the wraps off its new Windows Marketplace, which features the "digital locker" it began beta testing in June. The site offers consumers a selection of software, paid and free, for Windows XP, in addition to hardware upgrades and electronics.

The digital locker was designed to give customers a single page for controlling their personal information and purchase history, allowing them to instantly see what software licenses they own. Microsoft is offering programs from the libraries of Digital River, eSellerate, Handango and Kagi, but will not support independent ISVs. Software developers must sign up with one of those partners to sell their products.