Microsoft Corp hopes to boost its Windows for Smart Cards operating system, due for launch on November 15, up against Sun Microsystems Inc’s existing JavaCard by offering lower prices. Windows cards are expected to cost issuers around $3, compared with $20 for Java cards, says Microsoft. It also claims its technology will be easier to use. Microsoft is working with Siemens AG’s Infineon Technologies AG to make its software compatible with Infineon chips, and with Gemplus SA on GSM compatibility for cellular phones. Proton World International, the company spun off into a separate smart card venture by Belgium electronic payment consortium Banksys, also said it would use the operating system. Protom has backing from American Express and Visa International.
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