AOL To Roll Out New Features

America Online Inc. will reportedly launch
today its latest version software, dubbed AOL 6.0, which includes a
built-in music player allowing subscribers to download music without
falling into the copyright infringement abyss.

A Wall Street Journal report said the new software is part of the
company's "AOL Anywhere" strategy, which aims to put the service on
every device - from cellular phones to pagers to TVs, and introduces
a range of initiatives designed to expand its online service,
including features such as e-mail and instant messaging, which go
beyond the PC.

AOL 6.0 lays the groundwork for a digital-music download service for
paying subscribers, offering consumers an opportunity to download Web
music without worrying about piracy and other legal issues presently
confronting music-swap service providers such as Napster Inc. Another
key to the AOL Anywhere thrust is a new service called AOL By Phone,
which lets members call a toll-free number and use voice commands to
check e-mail, stock quotes, news and weather, and within a few
months, the company plans to add other services such as instant
messaging, driving directions and restaurant locators. The service
will be free until January and then will cost $4.95 a month, the
Journal report said.