NEW YORK — Hewlett-Packard Co. will pre-install anti-spam software with its consumer desktop computers, though the free program will only block certain types of unsolicited e-mail.
The software that will come with HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario computers, both made by HP, blocks pornographic and other "offensive" junk e-mail messages, said Carol Ozaki, an HP senior product manager.
Customers who want more protection can upgrade to the "pro" version of the SpamSubtract software from interMute Inc., which costs $29.95.
Ozaki said the software package works with Outlook, Outlook Express and other e-mail programs that use the POP3 standard, which covers most personal e-mail accounts that are not Web-based or America Online.
She said she knew of no other PC manufacturer bundling anti-spam software. HP, based in Palo Alto, Calif., is the No. 2 computer maker.
The leading computer manufacturer, Dell Computer Corp., has considered pre-installing such software but found many customers already get those functions from their Internet service providers or from software they download themselves, said spokesman Lionel Menchaca.
He said the company still may offer such software in the future after resolving some technical issues with a product from Network Associates Inc.