QXL ricardo plc announced the first stage of its .NET application development since its announcement in May 2001. QXL members will be able to log in via Microsoft's Passport authentication service by the end of next month. QXL also announced that it will work with Compaq Global Services, Intel & Razorfish to develop its QXL XPress application, part of its Microsoft .NET initiative. QXL, Compaq Global Services, Intel & Razorfish will work together with Microsoft to develop QXL XPress, which will provide instant access to its service from the desktop. The application will be showcased in the Windows Catalog that will be available to Windows XP users via their Start menu. QXL members will have instant access to their personal auction details and will have the option to be notified on the status of their current auctions via instant notification. http://www.qxl.com