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Microsoft Finally Laying MSN Direct to Bed in 2012

Posted 10/28/09 at 07:44:31 PM  by Ryan Whitwam

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Microsoft is always trying to work its way into new businesses. With that sort of approach, there are times that even Microsoft must admit defeat. One of those times is now. Microsoft has announced that the MSN Direct GPS service will be discontinued as of January 1st 2012.

MSN Direct is a service integrated into some GPS devices that uses FM signals to deliver traffic data, weather, stocks, movie times, and various other bits of info. The service was initially offered in 2004 when there may actually have been a need. Now, with the proliferation of cellular data connections and other digital networks, the MSN Direct service makes less sense.

The ample warning will give users just over 2 years of service to work out a substitute. Users with MSN Direct devices can still enroll in the service right up to the end date. Any subscribers wanting to cancel their accounts will be issued a prorated refund. Be honest, had you even heard of this service before now?

ms
COMMENTS:3
TAGS: microsoft, subscription, service, GPS, refund, MSN direct
COMMENTS
avatarIt came bundled with my Garmin GPS.

Submitted by squarebab on Thu, 10/29/2009 - 3:42am

I've been using it for two and a half years.  It is an incredible time saver for those who live in a large metropolitan area and travel to different locations everyday by motor vehicle.  The simple road map lets you make decisions quickly by displaying traffic conditions with green, yellow, or red striping on both sides of the highway.  This allows you to see instantly the least and most congested routes to your destination.  It works in real-time, of course, and it includes details of bottlenecks (accidents, construction etc).  I will miss it when it's gone and i hope I can find a suitable substitute. I will also be angry that I will probably have to purchase a new GPS, as well.

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avatarStop me if you've heard this one...

Submitted by Slugbait on Wed, 10/28/2009 - 11:18pm

A guy with a WebWatch walks into a bar...

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avatarHistory...

Submitted by 1337Goose on Wed, 10/28/2009 - 5:01pm

 Now it shall take its humble place in history with the Butter Stick...

No, I've never heard of it... 

~Goose

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