Microsoft Gains Support from Over 50 Companies in Antitrust Battle

Strategic Insights -

More than 50 companies, including tech giants Compaq and Dell, have rallied behind Microsoft Corp. in its ongoing legal battle with the federal government over the release of Windows 98. The rally, held in New York, aimed to warn of the potential negative impacts of blocking the timely release of the operating system, which is scheduled for June 28. Executives from the participating companies expressed concerns that a delay could stifle innovation, hinder growth, and negatively affect retail sales during the busy pre-Christmas period. The companies, including prominent names like 3COM Corporation and Symantec Corporation, are urging the government to allow the release of Windows 98, regardless of the outcome of the anti-trust dispute. Eckhard Pfeiffer, CEO of Compaq, emphasized that Windows 98 offers a platform for innovation, benefiting PC manufacturers, hardware vendors, and software developers, which ultimately leads to customer benefits.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 50 companies, including Compaq, Dell, and CompUSA, have publicly supported Microsoft in its antitrust battle with the federal government.
  • The companies warn that delaying the release of Windows 98 could have far-reaching negative impacts on the computer industry, including stifling innovation, hindering growth, and hurting retail sales.
  • Executives from participating companies, such as Eckhard Pfeiffer of Compaq, emphasize that Windows 98 offers a platform for innovation, benefiting various stakeholders in the industry.
  • The rally was held in New York, amid growing speculation that the Justice Department and state attorneys general are considering suing to block the release of Windows 98.
  • The companies are urging the government to allow the release of Windows 98, regardless of the outcome of the anti-trust dispute.

Statistics:

  • 50+ companies have thrown their weight behind Microsoft in its anti-trust battle with the federal government.
  • The companies involved include hardware vendors, software developers, and PC manufacturers, such as Compaq and Dell.
  • June 28 is the scheduled release date for Windows 98.
  • The pre-Christmas period is critical for retail sales in the computer industry.

Sources:

  • United Press International (Copyright 1998)