AppleSearch software to be upgraded for use on the global Internet.

Apple Computer Inc. says it will expand its AppleSearch text search and retrieval software beyond LAN applications "to help users access and find information they need on Internet."

AppleSearch is a client/server software designed to give Mac users personalized, easy access to large

"Just as the desktop computer came into its own in the 1980s, the information highway concept is evidence that network evolution is poised to dominate in the 1990s, giving users access to vast amounts of information," says Jim Groff, director of LAN services for Apple's business systems division.

Groff says Apple plans to continue "enhancing AppleSearch as an intelligent assistance solution that finds and organizes information -- no matter where it resides." AppleSearch already features "Reporters," which are sophisticated search agents that quickly sift through documents on a file server, regardless of format. to deliver needed information. Reporters can be assigned to keep users updated as new and relevant information appears on the server.

AppleSearch can also tap into server-mounted CD-ROMs, news wire services or other on-line services that feed into an AppleSearch server. The software is currently available for $1,799 for a client/server "five-pack." The client/server "10-pack" is $499, and the developer's toolkit is $299.