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Microsoft has launched its ad-supported free version of Microsoft Works. This is the regular version of the all-in-one productivity program (text editor, spreadsheet, etc), except that it also shows ads. In exchange it's delivered free of charge, which for most consumers means that they'll end up paying less for the purchase of a new computer.

So how is this exciting? Well, to see this long-promised business model finally come to fruition, it is Big-Time news. According to a test that CNet did, the ad approach seems realistic. The banners are not too big in size, so that, while they are noticeable, they will not hamper the productivity (which is the case in point, I guess). At the same time, banner ads obviously allow for a much better brand experience than simple text messages, which is a great relief for advertisers.