Web desktop targets 'cybernomads'

[gkd_uk]

A virtual desktop aimed at users who access the web via cybercafes is attracting interest from organisations set up to bridge the digital divide
Offered by Luxembourgh-based start-up Jooce, it is being billed as a way of personalising any computer.

Jooce is targeting the estimated 500 million people who log on to the internet from a cybercafe every day.

Its free web-based desktop could prove valuable for those who can't afford their own PC, said experts.

Jooce offers users the functionality they would get from their personal computer on any machine, allowing them access to files, e-mail, instant messaging, storage and other applications.

"It's a platform that will make it much easier for the world's cybernomads to manage their digital lives," said Jooce founder Stefan Surzyck.

"The one thing that has been missing is a place on the internet where these people can properly manage their online lives - their very own private space online," he said.

A public desktop - known as a Joocetop - is also available to allow friends to access and share files. A dedicated e-mail client is also in development.

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[temi]

This is quite exciting, reminds me of IBM's AS400 or Microsoft profile where you can have you destop setting saved, when you login, you have you customised eviroment downloaded... I think it can only work successfully with cooperation from cyber cafe owners.

[rhyswynne]

I'm aiming to travel soon, most hostels have net connections. I'd love something like this to keep just a little more connected than via wordpress and forums etc.