As expected, Microsoft Corp will launch version 5 of its Internet Explorer web browser today, Thursday. The new browser includes a filter designed to keep junk mail out of the attached email client. In addition, the ability to type only part of a URL into the location bar and have the software guess the rest has been extended to encompass web forms.
Some privacy advocates have raised concerns that this feature might inadvertently divulge credit card numbers and other sensitive information, but Microsoft has argued that since IntelliSense technology must be activated by the user, it’s perfectly safe.
Meanwhile, a deal between Microsoft and streaming media rival RealNetworks will allow users of IE 5 to connect to the latter’s RealGuide, a list of streaming media programming. Microsoft is also expected to announce a similar deal with Alexa Internet. Other new features in IE 5 include agent technology, Microsoft Wallet and closer integration with Microsoft’s Hotmail, a free web-based email service.
Associated Press noted that some critics say the features in Internet Explorer 5 contradict Microsoft’s contention that the web browser is an essential part of the Windows operating system, but a Microsoft official rejected suggestions that IE 5 is less tightly integrated with Windows than IE 4.
The company claims that more than 300,000 corporate desktops have been committed to IE 5 because of what CIOs say is its capacity to improve productivity and reduce cost of ownership. Compaq, Eli Lilly, Ernst & Young, Pfizer and JD Edwards have all come out as early adopters of the new browser.
