Summary Box: Microsoft’s new Web browser aims to blur line between website and PC application

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Summary Box: Microsoft’s IE9 promises speed

THE NEWS: Microsoft released the “beta” test version of Internet Explorer 9, its updated Web browser program. Starting Wednesday, people with computers running Windows 7 or Windows Vista can download IE9 at beautyoftheweb.com.

A CLOSER LOOK: The updated browser has far fewer buttons and toolbars than its predecessor. Its frame is translucent. People can “pin” favorite websites to the PC taskbar, creating one-click shortcuts.

UNDER THE HOOD: IE9 is the first of a new generation of browsers that tap into the powerful processors on board newer computers to make websites load and run faster.