By Ian Burley
24th September - 2001
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Contrary to some reports, bootsphoto will not be closed, a Boots spokesman told DPN today. “There is not enough demand for the part of the service that offers online storage and sharing of photos, so this is what is closing,” explained Francis Thomas, corporate spokesman for Boots plc.
For the last year Boots customers have had the option of having the photos from their developing and printing uploaded to bootsphoto.com as well as upload other images for printing and sharing. However, to keep them online they have had to pay a fee for the privilege. The site also offers advice and an ordering service for reprints and enlargements.
When asked if Boots could no longer justify charging for the service when free alternatives are available (MSN Communities, Epson Photo Site, etc.), Thomas seemed surprised that such services were freely available, citing the cost of server space.
Existing users are being informed that once their current paid for storage time is up they won’t be able to extend it. No new users will be accepted (though the ‘new customer form’ remained accessible this morning) and new photo uploads are now no longer possible.
Boots will be launching a new set of online services, including advice and online printing at the bootsphoto.com site early next year. Just don’t expect photo storage and sharing.
Commercial pragmatism or a blow to the consumer? What’s your opinion? Click here to tell us.
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DPN News service
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