Microsoft To Launch Tools for Office 2004 for Mac Customers

Microsoft's (www.microsoft.com) Macintosh Business Unit  today unveiled four new enhancements to help users of Office 2004 for Mac work even smarter: the .PST Import Tool to migrate data from Outlook® 2001 for Mac to Entourage® 2004. The additions include updates to Entourage 2004 and the next version of MSN® Messenger for Mac that will make collaboration in the enterprise even easier; and fresh Office tools and templates.

"Once we launch a product, our job as developers doesn't stop. We spend an incredible amount of time talking to our customers," said Roz Ho, general manager of the Macintosh Business Unit at Microsoft Corp.

Microsoft is also working closely with Apple Computer Corp. to ensure that Microsoft® Office for Mac can take advantage of new features in Mac OS X version 10.4 "Tiger," such as Spotlight and sync services when available in the first half of 2005.

"The Mac BU continues to show its dedication to the Mac platform by enhancing its products for Mac users," said Ron Okamoto, vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations at Apple.

"Microsoft makes it clear that our feedback is important and continues to deliver on its commitment to understand and support our unique business needs," said Chad Pankratz, creative systems group manager for GSD&M, a national branding and advertising firm based in Austin, Texas.

Customers requested an easier way to migrate data from Outlook 2001 for Mac to Entourage, an e-mail and personal information manager, and the new .PST Import Tool answers the call.

MSN Messenger for Mac 5.0 will enable real-time communication and easier collaboration for corporate Mac users. Some of the key features included in the next version are improved security and the ability to add users listed in a company's GAL or corporate address book.

The latest version also will enable users to view both personal and corporate messaging accounts from one location. MSN Messenger for Mac 5.0 is expected during the first half of 2005.