Microsoft lifts wallets online

Microsoft today put its e-wallet online, allowing users to access this cyber credit card from any PC. The software company put its existing service on a website, allowing shoppers to buy from over 50 retailers participating in the scheme by simply keying in their username. Launched in July, the Microsoft e-wallet is designed to cut down the time customers waste when buying online. By registering their name, address and credit card number just once with Microsoft, users can buy goods from a variety of sites without having to re-enter repetitive data. Other companies such as AOL and IBM offer similar wallet services, but the information is stored on an individual’s PC. Microsoft said it has more than 50 retailers planning to use the e-wallet, including Dell, Cheaptickets.com and bookshop Barnes and Noble. The service, part of Microsoft’s online registration service Passport, will eventually be available to be accessed through mobile phones. Full details of the e-wallet, plus a list of the participating retailers, can be found here.® Related story hacking scare on hotmail