European users of Apple Computer Inc’s axed eWorld on-line service are being left to their own devices following Apple’s decision to promote proprietary on-line service provider America Online Inc, Vienna, Virginia as a replacement for US subscribers only. America Online will now be the recommended on-line service for Apple’s US eWorld user population, which has already been offered Apple’s Internet starter kit for $35. However, because America Online has not introduced a Macintosh version of its software for the European market, Apple has recommended that European eWorld users find their own Internet access providers – contrary to earlier statements that said America Online’s software would be bundled on computers in Europe. In the UK and Eire, users will get Apple’s Internet kit for free. Pascal Cusset, manager of Apple Internet services for Europe, said We are recommending that European users move to local Internet providers. America Online has not released its Mac software in Europe, only its Windows version, so we cannot propose it. America Online software will be bundled on all US Performas, appropriate Educator Advantage machines, Power Mac Small Business Solutions and consumer Powerbooks. Mac OS licensees will have the opportunity to bundle America Online on their desktops, nationally and internationally. The move is part of a four-tier strategy through which both companies promise to enhance the America Online service using Apple’s interactive programming tools and offer users incentives to move to America Online. America Online has announced refined Mac client software and complete World Wide Web integration. Users will be given 15 free hours on America Online.
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