Netscape Communications Corp is expanding its browser customization program through a deal with 3M Corp for it to manufacture turnkey versions of the Communicator browsers on CD for use by ISPs, telcos, resellers and internet content companies. Netscape launched a customization software kit six months ago and says it has already received 7,300 orders. With the 3M agreement, which launches its Communicator-to-go program through the Netcenter web site, it hopes to crank up the volume of orders of turnkey browser and bring the cost down per unit. Companies that order the browsers will pay a duplication fee to 3M, but nothing to Netscape, which is mainly interested in getting its browser out to more desktops. Netscape says it is likely to cost between $1 and $5 per CD, depending on the volume and the complexity of packaging required.
