Adobe to Give Away Online Version of Photoshop

Adobe Systems Inc., San Jose, Calif., will release a free online version of its popular Photoshop image-editing software within six months, the company said Thursday. The online product will be a stripped-down version of the application that has become an industry standard for graphics professionals and pro photographers.

The move is part of a larger effort by the company to bring key aspects of its software portfolio -- which includes audio, video, and graphics applications -- online to draw advertising dollars and lure users into buying software upgrades. Until now, Adobe's business has been based primarily on packaged software.

The company currently offers four versions of its Photoshop software, from the high-end CS2 package targeted to creative professionals to the free Album Starter Edition for the casual photographer. The online offering will be more like the consumer products, according to Adobe.