The European Court of First Instance reaffirmed that Microsoft had abused its market power by adding a digital media player to Windows, undercutting the early leader, Real Networks. It also ordered Microsoft to obey a March 2004 commission order to share confidential computer code with competitors. The court also upheld the record fine levied against the company, € 497.2 million. It is a welcome decision, though long overdue.
While it has limited immediate impact, it can only encourage opening up of IT and a quicker migration to a more diverse world of software. That is the biggest threat to MS. They have sensibly expanded their reach in to mobile phones, gaming, TV and other media. Fortunately open applications are competing in those areas too and are bringing improved functionality, performance, security and pricing.
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