A few clicks, and Microsoft has a problem

Article Abstract:

Microsoft sustained a setback in its antitrust duel with the Government when District Court Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson quickly removed Microsoft's Internet Explorer 3.02 from the latest Windows 95 OS version. Judge Jackson also said he would schedule a hearing on the Justice Department's contempt charges against Microsoft for Jan 13, 1998. Judge Jackson's experiment, which took place on a new computer in his chambers, required about 180 seconds and fewer than six clicks of a mouse. The action suggests that users can remove Internet Explorer from Windows 95 easily and inexpensively without damaging the computer's operation. Both demonstrations took place on a Windows 95 utility program that allows users to remove or add programs. Judge Jackson has ordered Microsoft to halt forcing computer makers from bundling Explorer and Windows 95. The Justice Department criticized Microsoft's response of presenting PC makers with three choices, including a current Windows 95 version weakened by the Internet Explorer's absence.

Operating system, Operating systems

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U.S. assails Microsoft and seeks new oversight role

Article Abstract:

The Federal Government accused Microsoft of violating an antitrust ruling, and argued for prosecutorial authority to review new Microsoft products in advance. Microsoft failed to comply with Federal District Court Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson's injunction, which forces Microsoft to halt requiring computer manufacturers to bundle its Internet Explorer browser with its Windows 95 OS, according to the Justice Department. Antitrust lawyers filed a motion in Federal District Court, saying Microsoft deliberately offered three unworkable solutions to PC manufacturers following Judge Jackson's decision. The Justice Department also asked Judge Jackson for the right to review any new Microsoft OSes or browsers at least 30 days before commercial release, arguing the precedent represents the only way to assure full Microsoft compliance with the court order. Microsoft defends its actions and characterizes the Government's actions as unreasonable.

United States. Department of Justice. Antitrust Division

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U.S. tells court Microsoft breaks antitrust accord: $1 million a day sought: maker denies charge, saying rules on Windows system conforms to agreement

Article Abstract:

The US government filed a petition seeking to halt Microsoft from requiring PC manufacturers to include its Internet Explorer browser when they install the Microsoft Windows 95 OS. The Justice Department would attempt to fine Microsoft $1 million a day in civil contempt charges unless Microsoft alters its policy, according to Attorney General Janet Reno. Microsoft also violated a 1995 consent decree between Microsoft and the Justice Department, according to Reno. The legal challenge likely will hold broad ramifications in the browser competition between Microsoft and Netscape. Microsoft is unfairly extending its Windows monopoly and discouraging competition, Reno said. Microsoft attorneys promised to challenge the petition, saying that adding browser software in this case represents a technological enhancement of an existing product.

United States. Department of Justice

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