WebTV-User Please Transload any images you intend to copy from this website. PC users click here to access the WebTV Viewer.

Please no direct linking.

In September, 1996, Sony and Phillips introduced the first WebTV set-top boxes from WebTV Networks, Inc. They became known as WebTV Classic, sometimes called the WebTV Internet Terminal. In December 1997, a second generation of set- top box was introduced, which is known as the WebTV Plus. The new unit includes a TV tuner and integrates the TV and Web worlds.

In August of 1997, Microsoft Corp bought WebTV Networks, Inc. In December 1998, Microsoft began expanding WebTV Networks' offering by offering television- based software platform products and associated network services in order to deliver a complete digital solution for cable system operators and broadband service providers. In 2001 MSNtv formally changed the images and color scheme to fit the look of WebTV's new ownership to what is now known as MSNtv.

Most of the images here have rarely, if ever been seen, by most WebTV'ers. They represent advertising, homegrown and corporate images, from many different countries, around the world. These are PRO-WebTV images and commentary to illustrate where, how and why this genre has grown, changed and now might disappear.

Author's Comments:

This site mostly tells the story, about WebTV Networks® and not Microsoft® MSN® or MSNtv® brands and trademarks. It's interesting that so many people from all over the world have shared in this phenomenae. The images, history and commentary reflect this and that is why this archive has been created.

The Author has rewritten this first page many times. Due largely to the fact that there is so much information about the subject of WebTV Networks®, Since it's beginnings in 1995, till 1997 when it was sold to Microsoft® allot had happened.

If one wished all of the stories and the way it helped and changed people's lives, could stretch out as far as the eye could see. With each new thing discovered about WebTV Networks® something else revealed itself. It is by far not a complete history, but it does cover most of the highlights.