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The EU - Microsoft browser ballot fight is over. For now.
EU Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes had some big news this morning. At long last, a deal has been worked out that will see Microsoft implement a browser ballot screen which allows users to choose something other than Internet Explorer.So, what are the major changes which finally allowed the two sides to see eye-to-eye?
- The screen will be presented in a "neutralized window" rather than a full Internet Explorer window. I'm guessing this means the window title and taskbar icon will be free of Microsoft and IE branding.
- Browsers will be presented in random order.
- The ballot screen's design has been de-cluttered.
- Microsoft provide a status report to the Commission within six months - and then on an annual basis.
- Microsoft will be required to make changes to the ballot upon the Commission's request.
Comments
7
Subscribe to commentsMikeDec 16th 2009 8:49AM
So when does Apple have to employ this?
dcDec 16th 2009 1:55PM
Imagine if Google Chrome OS had to offer this choice.
It'd be one thing if this was done in 2000 when IE had a monopoly on browsers and people really didn't have much choice besides IE/Netscape/Opera. But now it's just a waste of time, energy and money. I don't get why they are doing this now. If it's because Windows is a monopoly why don't they make MS add a welcome screen telling people to buy a Mac or install Linux instead?
DrakkenfyreDec 16th 2009 2:16PM
If Google gets to put their name on their browser icon in the list, I think, as you mentioned most of your customers thinking Google was their "browser", would select Google.
I realize I just repeated what you said, but I was agreeing with you.
Muffin_manDec 16th 2009 5:08PM
Well I've had Windows 7 for a while now and I've never seen this ballot screen. I guess they were allowed to sell it while they came up with an agreement?
SilverWaveDec 16th 2009 7:20PM
Wow still can not believe that MS caved to this :)
Just shows that all you need to do to get them to fall in line is fine them $2.5Billion.
I'm sure every one has taken note.
MS did get one thing - competing browsers are not on the disk or delivered via msupdate, rather they will need downloaded.
Oh yes Google will win big here but so will the average user as Chrome auto-updates so will be very secure.
I'll still use FF but may install Chrome for family...
ConsumerJoeDec 17th 2009 1:02AM
So basically when the commission starts making requests for changes on a daily basis they'll claim MS is in noncompliance and fine them. When is someone in Europe going to make something so they can stop surviving off of fining MS?
SilverWaveDec 17th 2009 7:19AM
Hey don't knock it that $2.5Billion paid for some very expensive satellites.