Although the ruling did not order the break up of Microsoft, the
decision to remove limitations on internet browser controls may be
interpreted as an attempt to show that the company is willing to
compromise on some issues.
In a statement made yesterday, the CEO of Microsoft Corp. Steve
Ballmer said:
“We recognise that some provisions in our
existing Windows licenses have been ruled improper by the court, so
we are providing computer manufacturers with greater flexibility
and we are doing this immediately so that computer manufacturers
can take advantage of them in planning for the upcoming release of
Windows XP.”
Although Windows XP will require modification to meet this new
level of flexibility, Microsoft maintains that this will not affect
the launch date, which has been set for 25th October. The statement
reiterated the company’s expectations that Windows XP will have an
important impact within the computer industry. It states:
“Windows XP will offer customers exciting
new experiences for both home and work… Windows XP enables them to
embrace the new digital world. It brings together the power and
reliability that businesses have asked for with the ease of use and
flexibility that home consumers want.”
