VARs relieved at EC and Microsoft thaw

Spoilt for choice: a ballot screen will allow OEMs to to choose from a range of web browsers

The channel has welcomed a détente between the European Commission (EC) and Microsoft in its anti-trust battle over Internet Explorer (IE).

Previously Microsoft had been told by the EC it could no longer bundle IE on operating systems shipped to Europe, because it gave it an unfair advantage over other browser vendors.

But after close negotiations, Microsoft and the EC has reached an agreement that the software giant can include IE in European shipments of Windows 7, but must also allow OEMs to install competing web browsers and give end-users a pick of other browsers to use via a specially installed ‘ballot screen’.

In a recent statement, the EC said: “The proposal recognises the principle that consumers should be given a free and effective choice of web browser, and sets out a means – the ballot screen – by which Microsoft believes that can be achieved.

“In addition, OEMs would be able to install competing web browsers, set those as default and disable IE should they so wish. The Commission welcomes this proposal, and will now investigate its practical effectiveness in terms of ensuring genuine consumer choice.”

A similar statement from Microsoft said: “European consumers that buy a new Windows PC with IE set as their default browser would be shown a ballot screen from which they could easily install competing browsers from the web.

“We are committed to ensuring that we are in full compliance with European law and our obligations under the 2007 Court of First Instance ruling.”

Alex Tatham, sales director at distributor Westcoast, welcomed the move.

“The level of complexity this caused by not having IE bundled on Windows was ridiculous, but this now means system builders and OEMs can load other browsers on their PCs now if they so wish," he said.

"It will also make it easier for customers to access the internet. We are delighted and think it is a really sensible move.”

Simon Aron, joint managing director of Eurodata was also pleased with the decision.
“If you buy a copy of any software, take Norton for example – it is full of features from that particular vendor and you can choose to use it or not. Most people only use 20 per cent of a software package anyway – but they main thing is that they have the choice,” he said.

“With IE – most of my customers expect to be able to have the choice whether they use it or another browser, but it should be up to them. I never understood what the big deal was with Microsoft including IE in Windows. Of course if I were Google trying to break into the market I would think very differently. But I think this is a good decision.”