Conducent in Deal with Lycos to Offer Free Ad-Backed Software

Conducent Inc. signed a deal with Lycos to offer free, advertising-supported PC software applications enabled with Conducent’s technology on Lycos.com.

The software is available through links on the Lycos.com homepage, or directly at this location. Users will initially be able to download six different software programs from Lycos.com, with approximately 20 more to be added soon. Financial arrangements were not disclosed.

The programs include finance apps, games, PC utilities, Internet services and educational applications. Conducent’s technology enables ad targeting based on demographics of unique users based on registration information. Ads are displayed and tracked regardless of whether an individual is using the software online or off-line, providing Lycos with enhanced ad marketing potential.

“We are confident that our alliance with Conducent represents a significant new frontier for Lycos and our advertising and e-commerce partners by extending our services, content, and e-commerce offerings to the desktop,” said Jeff Crown, vice president of corporate development for Lycos.

Lycos will distribute SonicMail from SonicMail, ACD Express from ACD Systems, PKZip from PKWare Inc., Debt Relief from Insight Software Solutions Inc., Home Buyer’s Calculator and Loan Spread Calculator from Wheatworks Software. Future applications from R.I. Soft Systems Inc., Wanted Technologies and eGames Inc. are on the horizon.