A New World Without Internet Explorer?
by Nich, posted on July 26, 2009
The New York Times reports that Microsoft has proposed to offer its European users the ability to turn off Internet Explorer during the installation of their soon-to-be-released Windows 7 operating system. While the plan has not yet been approved and will still need to be further investigated, the EU released a statement showing its enhusiasm on the matter:
Under the proposal, Windows 7 would include Internet Explorer, but the proposal recognises the principle that consumers should be given a free and effective choice of web browser, and sets out a means – the ballot screen – by which Microsoft believes that can be achieved. In addition OEMs would be able to install competing web browsers, set those as default and disable Internet Explorer should they so wish. The Commission welcomes this proposal, and will now investigate its practical effectiveness in terms of ensuring genuine consumer choice.
Microsoft has been in antitrust litigation with the EU for over a decade with fines totalling over $1 billion. If this proposal becomes reality, the option to not install Internet Explorer will only be offered in Europe.
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