Microsoft was fined by the European Union over $700 million for failing to offer users a choice of web browser on a Windows PC. In 2009 Microsoft made a legally binding commitment allowing users to make a choice of how they access the internet. The ruling found they did not live up to their end of the bargain.
In 1995 Microsoft included Internet Explorer (IE) as part of their operating system, Windows 95. Since the browser was given away for free other browser companies like Netscape were left in the dust.
This weeks ruling determined Microsoft failed to honor their obligation between May 2011 and July 2012. Approximately 15 million users were not given the opportunity to select the browser of their choice. Oops!
"We have apologized for it," Microsoft said in a statement.
Microsoft and other companies that try to gain an unfair advantage need to be investigated. Having a tendency towards unscrupulous and questionable business practice could cause one to wonder how they conduct themselves in other areas of business. The saying 'rotten to the core' may apply.
Companies competing with Microsoft can expect unfair competition. But will the fine produce the desired effect? My guess is that Microsoft has found out the cost of competing unfairly in the browser space. It will be curious to see if they are willing to continue paying over $700 million each time they are caught in order to have the most popular browser on the planet.
