eMachines To Make Microsoft Devices

Low-price computer maker eMachines Inc. will produce easy to use Internet devices for Microsoft Corp., the two announced Monday. Irvine, Calif.-based eMachines will make MSN Companion devices for the software giant's Microsoft Network.

MSN Companions, which are also being made by manufacturers such as Compaq and Acer, provide access to e-mail and the World Wide Web through a dial-up service. They are not full-fledged computers and can't be used to play games or write any kind of business documents.

EMachines plans to sell the device for $349, but MSN will offer a $400 rebate if consumers sign up for a three-year Internet service contract at $21.95 per month. Monitors, however, will be sold separately, unlike MSN Companion devices made by other manufacturers. www.e4me.com

Source: eMachines