Microsoft Launches Office 2013 Software Suite

Microsoft has launched a new version of its Office software suite.

Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Outlook have been redesigned to work better with touch screen controlled computers.

They also integrate Skype video chat facility. Users can add further functions via a new app store

Consumers can buy the suite for use on one PC for $140 - £110 in the UK - but Microsoft appears to favour a subscription deal for its Office 365 Home Premium edition, which is the focus of the promotional activity on its site.

This charges $100 (£80) for one year's access on up to five PCs or Macs and bundles in 60 minutes of Skype calls a month as well as more SkyDrive storage.