Final days: EU Microsoft probe
p2pnet.net News:- Since the early 90s, Microsoft and the EU have been arguing about how the latter should package and sell its product in Europe – and they still can’t agree.
The EU says Microsoft doesn’t release sufficient information on how its Windows OS works, and that its dominance has, "prevented rival versions of multimedia software gaining a foothold," says a BBC story here.
Now, "Brussels’ antitrust probe of the software firm nears its close," says the Beeb, going on:
"The advisory committee of national antitrust exports is scheduled to make its decision on Monday. This will then pave the way for a final announcement on the long-running case during the last week of March."
The Beeb story quotes media reports that say the draft Commission decision requires Microsoft to share proprietary information with rival server makers and to provide computer manufacturers with a second, stripped-down version of Windows.
"This latter demand will allow rival brands of audiovisual software to be built into the operating system," it says, adding:
"The panel is also expected to endorse a fine of hundreds of millions of euros, but not until a second and final meeting on 22 March. Brussels reportedly intends to give Microsoft a deadline to get its house in order or face additional action. Commission officials have worked and re-worked their draft to stand up to court scrutiny, since Microsoft is almost certain to appeal against any adverse decision."
