Eyebrows in the antitrust community rose as news emerged that Microsoft is bundling its Windows 8.1 software with online voice communication application Skype appearing automatically at the start screen.
The bundling, announced by the tech company on Thursday, seems similar to some antitrust experts and members of the tech industry to Microsoft’s major antitrust battle with regulators over Microsoft’s practice of making its Internet Explorer web browser the default browser on its operating system.
Microsoft was sued by the US Department of Justice over allegations the company was abusing its monopoly position; the two settled the case in 2001 to avoid a court-ordered breakup of Microsoft.
Now, some say Microsoft is “testing the waters” with the appearance of Skype on its new homepage, though others say features – like a custom set-up process for users and previous bundling – suggest Microsoft is safe from any lawsuit regarding the matter.
Full Content: Geek.com
Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.
Featured News
Colorado Senate Rejects Bill Barring Rent-Setting Algorithms
May 2, 2024 by
CPI
Bayer Faces US Antitrust Suit Over Pet Meds Competition
May 2, 2024 by
CPI
Landmark Monopoly Trial Between DOJ and Google Wraps Up
May 2, 2024 by
CPI
Lawmaker Probes FTC and EU’s Role in Amazon’s Failed iRobot Acquisition
May 2, 2024 by
CPI
FTC to Approve Exxon’s $64 Billion Deal with Pioneer Resources
May 1, 2024 by
CPI
Antitrust Mix by CPI
Antitrust Chronicle® – Economics of Criminal Antitrust
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
Navigating Economic Expert Work in Criminal Antitrust Litigation
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
The Increased Importance of Economics in Cartel Cases
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
A Law and Economics Analysis of the Antitrust Treatment of Physician Collective Price Agreements
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
Information Exchange In Criminal Antitrust Cases: How Economic Testimony Can Tip The Scales
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI