Encarta was a digital multimedia encyclopedia by Microsoft, initially on CD-ROM/DVD and later online, featuring thousands of articles, photos, videos, sound clips, maps, and homework tools, known for its rich interactive content that surpassed traditional print encyclopedias for students and general users. It offered hypertext links, atlases, timelines, and integrated web content, evolving from a purchasable product to an ad-supported online service before its discontinuation in 2009.

Key Features & Evolution:

Multimedia Richness: Unlike print, Encarta packed in videos, animations, sound clips (like world music), and thousands of images with its articles, making learning dynamic.

Interactive Tools: Included detailed atlases (with satellite views via TerraServer), timelines, and homework help features.

Web Integration: Offered links to related websites and later evolved into an online portal with live updates and free content, accessible via subscription or ad-supported access.

Versions: Available in various editions (Standard, Deluxe, Premium) and languages, sold on physical discs (CD/DVD) or accessed online.

User Experience: Provided an intuitive, Internet Explorer-style interface, making it easy for students and adults to research topics comprehensively.

Impact: Encarta became a leading digital reference work, transforming how people accessed and learned from encyclopedic information by leveraging the power of computers and the internet for a richer, more engaging experience than its printed predecessors.