The online dictionary market will soon face new competition, as Microsoft announced it will launch a free online version of its Encarta World English Dictionary.

Microsoft_s announcement comes just days after Oxford University Press announced the launch of its own Oxford English Dictionary (OED) online. The OED, however, uses a fee-based model, charging an annual fee of $550 for access. Microsoft’s Encarta dictionary, scheduled to be available starting April 17, will include audio pronunciations of words as well as standard dictionary definitions, according to Microsoft. Encarta was initially created with help from the Internet, company representatives say. Right now, the Encarta site hosts Microsoft_s online encyclopedia, which features audio and video entries. Access is free, although more information is available in a continuously updated deluxe version that costs $49.95 yearly. Microsoft will continue to sell the Encarta dictionary on CD-ROM for $39.95. The Encarta encyclopedia is also available online in a variety of configurations.