Microsoft is finally taking the plunge on providing a Macintosh version of its MSN Internet service. After years of eschewing the Macintosh Internet service market, the company will announce its intention Thursday to offer MSN Internet access and content to users of Apple Computer's Mac OS X--though the service won't be available until early next year. Prices and features will be similar to the PC version, with those in the United States able to choose from dial-up service and broadband. There is also a plan for those who want the MSN content but already have Internet service through another provider.

As previously reported, Microsoft quietly dipped its toe in the Mac market earlier this year when it offered dial-up access for those customers in 14 states served by telecom provider Qwest Communications. Microsoft has been offering a Mac OS 9 program that dials into the Internet, but the program does not offer the customized browser and other MSN content found in the PC version. Offering the service was part of a deal Microsoft struck with telephone service provider Qwest a year ago to transition Qwest's dial-up and broadband customers from the Qwest.net service to Microsoft's MSN service.