A comment by Arthur Sulzberger Jr. in an interview with Ha’aretz sounded as though the New York Times has decided to charge for Times Reader when the software being developed with Microsoft leaves beta; the launch is expected this year. The language users agree to has been clear from the beginning that although the current version is free, the right to charge is reserved. Here’s the exchange from the interview:
“Also, the Times signed a deal with Microsoft to distribute the paper through a software program called Times Reader, Sulzberger says. The software enables users to conveniently read the paper on screens, mainly laptops. ‘I very much believe that the experience of reading a paper can be transfered to these new devices.’ Will it be free? No, Sulzberger says. If you want to read the New York Times online, you will have to pay.”
And here’s what an NYTCO spokeswoman wrote when I asked about it: “We’re still working on this and haven’t announced anything at this point. There are several different approaches we’re looking at.”
Just a guess, here, but it could wind up being “free” for print subscribers who sign up for TimesSelect and possibly for TimesSelect-only subs and a charge for everyone else.
Related:
-- NYT Reader From Microsoft Starts Beta; Official Launch Slated For 2007