Microsoft preaches cross platform fraternity at Apple summit

Microsoft is to develop a version of its Office software for use with Apple's new operating system.

The move was announced by Microsoft executive Kevin Browne at Apple Computers' annual gathering called Macworld.

The software - which is Microsoft's second best seller after Windows - should be available for use the new Mac OS X platform by the autumn.

"Since many of our customers live cross platform, using a PC at work and a Mac at home, I think I feel their pain and look for ways for minimise it," he commented.

Mr Browne has headed Microsoft's specialist Macintosh Business Unit since 1999.