Microsoft's proposal tooffer a choice of browserswith its Windows operating
system to appease Europe's anti-monopoly authorities applies not
only to Windows 7.
Users of Windows Vista and XP are also to be offered a choice of
browsers through a planned special update, according to
Ars Technica.
Microsoft says it will distribute the browser ballot screen
software via Windows Update to XP and Vista users within the EU,
providing they have automate updates turned on.
The XP and Vista update will be sent out three to six months
after the announcement of the European Commission's decision.
Windows 7 users will get the update within two weeks of the
decision, but if it is made soon, the update will be available with
the general Windows 7 release on 22 October.
The agreement to allow a choice of browsers is set to last five
years, which means it could affect any operating system Microsoft
releases in that time after Windows 7.
Details of the proposals reveal that users will be able to
choose from up to 10 different browsers and PC manufacturers can
ship one or more third-party browsers instead of Internet Explorer
8.
The move comes after EC officials rejected a Microsoft proposal
to distribute Windows 7 in Europe without any browser at all.
Microsoft is under pressure to find a way to avoid sanctions
after the EC found that bundling Internet Explorer with Windows
harmed browser competition in Europe.
In 2004, the EC was successful in its monopoly abuse case
against Microsoft for linking its media player to Windows, fining
the software maker €497m (£430m).
Lawyers for Microsoft believe the proposal will fully address
concerns about harming browser competition.
European authorities have welcomed the proposal, but said they
would investigate how effective the move will be in ensuring
genuine consumer choice.