AOL backs Internet Explorer

AOL has quashed rumours that it is thinking of dropping Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser from its portal site.

In the wake of yesterday's Netscape acquisition, AOL chairman Steve Case categorically denied that Internet Explorer will be written out of AOL's Internet service in favour of Netscape Navigator.

Case said: "We remain committed to working with Microsoft. For example, our intention is to continue to use Internet Explorer within AOL because we believe it is important to have AOL bundled on the Windows desktop."

But he added that Netscape's browser will now be used to spearhead future marketing campaigns, including better integration with the ICQ online chat application, as well as fronting its online and portal sites.