Microsoft is considering the possibility of free, advertising supported versions of its applications including Windows.

An internal research paper prepared for an executive brainstorming session recommends looking into delivering software such as Works, Money and Windows free of charge, supported by advertising revenues.

However, Michael Gartenberg, research vice president at analyst firm Jupiter Research, said that the paper should not be seen as confirmation that Microsoft is actually planning such a move.

"This just an exploratory thing that is far more for discussion than a plan, " he told vnunet.com. " Microsoft is not shifting its business plan this week."

The research paper, which was dated 'winter 2005', was dug up by technology news website Cnet. Microsoft confirmed the authenticity of the document, but declined any further comment.

LINK: vnunet