Microsoft Patents Pay-As-You-Go Computer Model

According to documents released on Christmas Day, Microsoft has patented a new “pay-as-you-go” computer model.  The patent, originally filed in June 2007, would offer low-priced computers that provide usage-based access to software, PCMag.com reports.

This patent would allow people to buy computers at lower prices, and then purchase access to software programs via a set bundle or per-hour basis.  Fees would be lower for tasks such as word processing, while fees would be higher for more complicated tasks.  Microsoft would also monitor the machine’s disk storage space, processor cores, and memory used, and bill the consumer.  As the patent application states:

The current business model for computer hardware and software relies on a user purchasing a computer with hardware and software that is suited to the most demanding applications that the user expects to encounter. Therefore, a user may buy a multi-core processor with a significant amount of memory and advanced video support for gaming applications that are only used on the weekend, while the user’s day-in, day-out activities may involve little more than word processing or web-browsing.

The program may be very useful for those who only need occasional access to a computer.  Since these types of people would only need a computer to perform simple  tasks, they would be able to avoid the heavy price tag for a computer of their own.  Also, they would be able to avoid the hassle of borrowing a computer and situations such as buying the entire Microsoft Office Suite, when all they really need in Microsoft Word.