Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates revealed Friday a software program aimed at offering newspapers a new alternative to digital publishing that makes content easier to read on a computer screen, writes CNET (via MediaBuyerPlanner). Gates debuted the program developed by the New York Times Co., called the "Times Reader," that uses the graphics power of Windows Vista software - allowing users to view the content on any screen size and change the font size. The layout automatically adjusts to the size of the screen, flowing around graphics.

"The Times Reader is a powerful example of how companies can use software to forge new types of customer connections that span beyond the browser to the desktop and mobile devices," said Gates in a release prior to his speech at the American Society of Newspaper Editors.

While providing the look and feel of the newspaper, the Times Reader also provides the increased functionality of the web, including continuous updates, multimedia and hyperlinks. Users can synchronize via the web and read content online or offline. Business travelers or commuters, for example, can synchronize their laptops before getting on an airplane so they can take along the latest New York Times content and read it when convenient.