Custom Browser? Way Cool

As browsing becomes more than a custom, customized browsers are becoming big business,at least that's what the backers of NeoPlanet are hoping.

The Tempe, Ariz., maker of custom browsing software gained $23 million in second round venture financing from several venture capital firms.

NeoPlanet's new venture partners include Integral Capital, J&W; Seligman, Constellation Ventures, Broadview and several other unnamed investors. NeoPlanet develops custom Web browsers, which have been picked up by clients such as MTV and Universal Studios for Web-based promotions.

MTV's "Daria"- guided browser is one of Neo-Planet's projects.

"Even in the current market situation, if you really have a compelling business,by "compelling business" I mean both compelling in terms of doing something unique but also as a business in terms of driving profitability,there is still venture money out there," says Drew Cohen, NeoPlanet's president.

NeoPlanet's custom Web browsers,based on Microsoft's Internet Explorer,establish tailor-made sets of information, graphics, sounds and links for clients joined by a common mission, job or interest.

For example, MTV enlisted NeoPlanet to design a custom browser for its viewers. The ISV delivered a browser with a theme based on MTV's animated character "Daria."

And looking ahead, NeoPlanet is expected to release a custom Web browser for rap star Eminem in conjunction with an agreement it has with Interscope Geffen A&M; records. Interscope, a division of Universal's music group, wants the browsers to offer fan-focused points of entry to the Web, with other artists expected to have Neo-

Planet develop custom browsers for them as well.