SPRINT Corporation and Blockbuster Entertainment Group yesterday launched an Internet access software package via Blockbuster's 3,200 music and video stores across the United States.
Sprint's Internet Passport software, which uses a customised version of Netscape Communications Corporation's Navigator browser, will be provided free with a Blockbuster video or music rental or purchase.
The companies said they would combine Sprint's Internet access product with software focused on entertainment to provide music and video clips from a Blockbuster home page. Users can buy music on-line.
Although the software is free and comes on a CD-ROM, users will still need to pay a $19.95 flat monthly Internet access fee, or $1.50 per hour to use the service after a first free month.
The partners plan to support the launch with an advertising blitz in 50 cities this month. Blockbuster will also mail the promotion to its six million video members.
