First windows-based virtual desktop launched
16 February 2009
Bharti Airtel yesterday said it was offering the world's first Windows-based virtual desktop that runs on Microsoft and Nivio, giving access to a personal virtual desktop from any computer connected to the internet for Airtel broadband customers.
Bharti said on Sunday that this initiative would pave the way for easy and affordable access to computing and broadband in India. This service will be available to all Airtel broadband customers across 95 cities in the country.
"Airtel hopes to increase computer and broadband penetration by making it easy, affordable and with low access barriers,"said Atul Bindal, president, Telemedia Services, Bharti Airtel.
Bindal said, "Our online desktop platform, powered by Microsoft and Nivio, will be useful in making computing more accessible to SMBs, SMEs and SOHOs as well as individual home customers of Airtel broadband. This is part of our larger commitment to offer an enhanced broadband experience to our customers and to drive the adoption of broadband by innovating and collaborating."
Microsoft India managing director Rajan Anandan said, "We believe that Bharti Airtel's strong reach will be able to deliver the power of computing to users in far flung areas. For the small office segment and home professionals - this is a timely offer that will help them control costs and also increase productivity - so important in the prevailing environment."
The virtual desktop from Airtel brings many firsts for broadband users in India:
- 5 GB space to store documents, photos, music, presentations, software at a central place
- Freedom of accessing data anywhere, anytime
- Free anti-virus protection which makes stored data safe and secure
- Original and latest software on a rental basis - pay as you go
- Reduced IT infrastructure cost with no cost of CPU
- Unified billing with service usage included in monthly Airtel broadband bill
