European Union Complaining towards Vista
European Union’s commission member Neelie Kroes threatens Microsoft not to be able to sell a single copy of it’s new Windows Vista within the whole EU. The problem is supposed to be the “integrated programs” that would harm the competitiveness of the European IT market.
“We expect Microsoft to develop Vista to comply with European laws protecting the competitive market economy. It wouldn’t be smart to come with something that does not correspond our law(s),” said Kroes. The commissioner also stated she has sent a letter to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer regarding this latest issue. Microsoft stated it does not know about the letter and can not provide any information thought.
The EU vs. Microsoft issue is now about sever-years-old. EU has reservations to some software packages included with current and future versions of Windows like some security functions or anti-virus protection software. The Internet Explorer remains the main exploit for EU though.
Google is also fearing the new Internet Explorer 7 that should come with Vista, because it thinks it could make Google derail on web search with even more precise MSN search integration. Microsoft already promised to deliver cut-down versions of Vista for EU named Windows Vista Home Basic N and Windows Vista Business N, excluding the Windows Media Player from them.