Microsoft Internet Explorer Totally Dead for 2006

We all know that the development of Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) Web browser stopped in 2003 following the release of Apple's Safari. It stands at v5.2.3. But IE is now officially totally dead. A note on Microsoft's Mactopia Web page for IE states the following:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER FOR MAC USERS

In June 2003, the Microsoft Macintosh Business Unit announced that Internet Explorer for Mac would undergo no further development, and support would cease in 2005. In accordance with published support lifecycle policies, Microsoft will end support for Internet Explorer for Mac on December 31st, 2005, and will provide no further security or performance updates.

Additionally, as of January 31st, 2006, Internet Explorer for the Mac will no longer be available for download from Mactopia. It is recommended that Macintosh users migrate to more recent web browsing technologies such as Apple's Safari.

Download a copy now if you want to keep one just in case. However, we find Firefox and Opera to be good adjuncts to Safari and have not found a need for IE for over a year. [Bill Fox]