[citation][nom]cbfelterbush[/nom]The FACT of the matter is, despite their "reason" for perusing this action against Microsoft, the EU is simply fishing for money. Microsoft has the right to include IE with Windows, moreover IE Needs to be included with Windows.There needs to be a default browser included with an OS. Microsoft is doing nothing to inhibit ANYONE from installing ANY Browser they want. Every OS contains an included default Browser. However the EU thinks that only Microsoft should be required to take extra steps to increase the competitive nature of the market. I don't see iOS or OSX being targeted by the EU. Supporting an argument to the contrary under this basis, "Microsoft has gone out of their way to ensure that the AVERAGE CONSUMER never has a choice in what OS is on their PC," -it_pays2thinkComplete nonsense, since IE is not the most used browser on Windows this position falls flat. The AVERAGE CONSUMER by the law of averages IS changing their browser choice without issue. -CB[/citation]
So the EU is fishing for money when:
1. Sun in 1998 complained to the EU about Microsoft including IE in the OS
http://www.crn.com.au/News/92409,eu-dismisses-microsoft-antitrust-appeal.aspx
2. The EU made a judgement based on the laws and regulations in place, Microsoft fought tooth and nail with their lawyers at all stages, appeals, etc. and it was clear they lost and were to put in place what the regulations in Europe required. They have continued to snub their nose to the various judgements and have not implemented the change. By due process the next step was to fine them according to the rules.
3. If a monopoly breaks the rules and regulations there are consequences, even if consumers have created a market for competition. They are still held to be accountable for breaking rules.
If I have a store and you have a store, if I'm using anti-competitive tactics to get an advantage over you, it does not matter whether you're store has no business, less business or is doing well, I am breaking the rules and as a result there are consequences. Customers may be choosing you over me, but I am still violating competition rules.