ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, February 2, 1996 TAG: 9602020059
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: B-7 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: WASHINGTON
SOURCE: Associated Press
Microsoft Corp. and Black Entertainment Television said Thursday that they were launching a joint venture that at first will provide entertainment and news for black Americans on the Internet.
The Microsoft-BET alliance is the latest in a series of ventures the software giant has announced with other broadcasters and media companies to distribute their products on the global computer network.
``This relationship will create an independent and interactive voice for black America,'' said Bob Johnson, chairman and chief executive of BET Holdings, the Washington, D.C.-based parent of the black-oriented cable station.
``This venture will ensure that black America will be part of the information superhighway,'' he said.
Bill Gates, Microsoft's chairman, said in a videotaped statement that about 25 percent of all blacks use a personal computer.
``The goal of our venture is nothing less than to be the premium brand for African Americans on the information superhighway,'' Gates said.
The venture initially will focus on developing arts, public affairs and shopping for The Microsoft Network, the Redmond, Wash.-company's online service. It also will work on interactive television, CD-ROM titles and other entertainment products.
A new company will be formed by the Microsoft and BET joint venture, to be managed from BET's Washington headquarters. The new company also plans to offer programs for other companies seeking to target black consumers.
LENGTH: Short : 38 linesby CNB