Microsoft Subpoenas AOL, Netscape, and Sun Over Proposed Purchase

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft has issued subpoenas to America Online, Netscape, and Sun Microsystems for documents related to AOL's proposed purchase of Netscape for $4.2 billion. The move is part of Microsoft's defense against U.S. government antitrust charges. The subpoenas seek documents about the purchase's potential impact on online services, Internet software, and other technology platforms.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft has issued subpoenas to America Online, Netscape, and Sun Microsystems for documents related to AOL's proposed purchase of Netscape for $4.2 billion.
  • The subpoenas are part of Microsoft's defense against U.S. government antitrust charges.
  • The documents sought by Microsoft include information about the purchase's impact on online services, Internet software, computer operating systems, and other technology platforms and Web sites known as "portals".
  • America Online, with over 16 million subscribers, would become owner of two of the four most popular portal sites on the Web and Netscape's Internet browser software if the sale is approved.
  • Sun's Java technology, which lets consumers run software on various operating systems, is also relevant to the purchase and its impact on the technology industry.
  • The proposed purchase combines America Online's massive user base with Netscape's popular browser software, giving the combined entity significant control over the Internet.
  • Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser competes with Netscape's browser software.

Statistics:

  • AOL has over 16 million subscribers.
  • The proposed purchase of Netscape by AOL is worth $4.2 billion.
  • The sale would give AOL ownership of two of the four most popular portal sites on the Web.
  • Netscape's browser software competes with Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser.

Sources:

  • Associated Press, "Microsoft Subpoenas AOL, Netscape Over Proposed Purchase", December [no date given]

https://apnews.com

  • (Note: External link to AP has been removed, please refer to the original source for verification)