Summary Box: Microsoft updates Office 2010, adds free Web-based apps that compete with Google

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Summary Box: Microsoft updates Office 2010

SOFTWARE UPDATE: Microsoft is launching Office 2010 for businesses on Wednesday. Consumers will be able to buy the next-generation software in June.

ONLINE COMPETITION: Office 2010 includes free versions of Word, Excel and other programs that work in a Web browser. Google has offered similar online programs for a few years.

TREADING CAREFULLY: Microsoft must balance competing with Google and preserving a lucrative business: Office and other business software accounted for 51 percent of its operating income in the most recent quarter.