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News
Issue #2002 - 14
(April 2002)
(Updated Apr.
10, 2002)
TECHNOLOGY
Microsoft’s Antitrust Judge
Allows Review of Microsoft Actions in Mobile OS Arena
The judge presiding over the
Microsoft antitrust settlement ruled that the nine states seeking
stricter antitrust penalties can support their case with evidence
from emerging technology markets, reported the British news service
Ananova.
The nine states argue that the Justice Department brokered
settlement did not take into account the rapid evolution of the
industry and want penalties to reflect the change.
However, Microsoft is arguing that the emerging technology
markets are not significant to this suit dating back to 1998.
Before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly calls into question Microsoft’s
newest technologies, including its PocketPC and SmartPhone 2000
platforms, she said that she would like to know more about these new
technologies.
"I don’t believe I can make that determination in the
abstract," she said. "If they’re not (relevant), then
that will be the end of my examination of these devices."
Microsoft’s opponents plan to call on several industry
witnesses, including executives from Novell, Palm and SBC
Communications to offer testimony.
Besides wanting stricter penalties, they want Microsoft to pare
down its Windows operating system, making it more compatible with
competitors’ products.
(Based on Ananova’s report)
Mobileinfo Comments & Advisory: We
are not concerned that Microsoft has monopolistic power in mobile
device and smart phone OS arena today. However, legislators and courts
should ensure that Microsoft does not extend those business practices
that led to its monopoly to the mobile space. On the other hand,
competition introduced by Microsoft is good for PalmOS and Symbian. We
need a fine balance in setting rules for market innovation.
Note: This news release may contain
forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in
developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology
architectures. All trademarks used in this summary are
the property of their respective owners.
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