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.”