Microsoft Faces EU Opposition in Antitrust Case

Strategic Insights -

Five major US technology companies, including IBM, Oracle, Red Hat, RealNetworks, and Nokia, have lined up alongside European Union regulators to challenge Microsoft's appeal against a EUR497 million ($A836.5 million) fine for monopolistic behavior. The European Commission's ruling requires Microsoft to share its technology with competitors and sell a version of Windows without Windows Media Player in Europe. This move is seen as a shift in attitude towards Microsoft, with the powerful lobby now ranged alongside the EU. The five companies have joined forces to support the commission's position, which they believe is correct.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft is facing opposition from five major US technology companies, including IBM, Oracle, Red Hat, RealNetworks, and Nokia.
  • The European Commission's ruling requires Microsoft to share its technology with competitors and sell a version of Windows without Windows Media Player in Europe.
  • The five companies have entered the fray to support the commission's position, which they believe is correct.
  • Oracle has a historical interest in opposing Microsoft, with its CEO Larry Ellison being a long-time opponent in several areas of technology.
  • Nokia sees Microsoft as a threat due to the rapid shift of broadband communications into mobile phone technologies with video-based services.

Statistics:

  • EUR497 million: The fine imposed on Microsoft by the European Commission for monopolistic behavior.
  • $A836.5 million: The equivalent of the fine in Australian dollars.
  • Five companies: IBM, Oracle, Red Hat, RealNetworks, and Nokia have joined forces to support the commission's position.

Sources:

  • Associated Press
  • European Commission