New Windows Live OneCare Due Jan. 30

By Ed Oswald | Published January 23, 2007, 11:35 AM

Microsoft plans to release a new version of its Windows Live OneCare anti-malware and maintenance software on January 30. The new version will feature Windows Vista support, as well as unified virus and spyware scanning and more flexible backup options.

At that time, the software will also be launched in 16 other countries. Since OneCare's initial launch in May 2006, the service has only been available in the United States. Those with current memberships will be automatically upgraded to the new release.

Beta testers of the current version will be given the opportunity to receive a discount of approximately 60 percent off a year's subscription if they sign up through the Web site between January 23 and February 12, Microsoft added. The current annual subscription rate is $49.95 USD for up to three PCs.

"This new release marks our continued commitment to evolving and expanding our all-in-one PC care service around the world -- both for Windows XP and now Windows Vista customers," Technology Care and Safety group general manager Ryan Hamlin said.

While a fairly new entrant into the antivirus space, analysts predict that OneCare will quickly gain traction in the marketplace. Its success has even worried some of Microsoft's long-standing partners, such as McAfee and Symantec, who would lose the most from its success.

Comments

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Correct me if I'm wrong, but the new version still doesn't support the 64-bit version of XP or Vista.

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i tryed the beta a real pain to system resources // now use avast anti virus & windows xp fire wall both free & no problems,no thats value for money...

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"The new version will feature Windows Vista support"...you think, really? Do I really sound that sarcastic?

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I beta tested it too. I'm not paying for it. Every beta program I've been involved with at MS at least generously gave the testers a free license. Not OCL. They offered us a discount (whoopee). No thanks. As much as I despise Symantec and the others, I'm not ready to toss in the towel to MS just yet.

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I beta tested OneCare and it is a great product. Plus 3 PC licenses for $49.95. That's great.

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Dear Sirs
I have allready installed the Windows Vista (TM) RC1 Evaluation copy, build 5600, as well as the RC2 Evaluation too.
I cam now to give my final expression:
CONGRATULATION for the Microsoft.
Vista is an Operational System and I puting It in the category to a real dream, as well, one Hi realization.

Georges P. Sellinas

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8(

Don't do drugs kids

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...or sniff glue.

...or head-butt speeding vehicles.

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Why do I get the feeling the last one is being said from personal experience?

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Hey now...it was only going 20MPH... :p

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