Microsoft Under Fire for Dominance in Online Market

America Online President and CEO Steve Case called on Microsoft to provide equal access to other online service providers, citing the need for a level playing field in the rapidly evolving online market. Case emphasized the importance of consumer choice, urging Microsoft to unbundle its MSN service from Windows 95 or provide equal access within the operating system. This move would ensure that personal computer owners have the freedom to choose from multiple providers of interactive services, much like consumers of local telephone services have choices in long distance providers.

Key Takeaways:

• America Online's President and CEO, Steve Case, publicly criticized Microsoft's plans to leverage its dominance in operating systems to control online markets.
• Case advocated for a level playing field in the online market, urging Microsoft to allow other providers of interactive services to have equal access to the operating system.
• Microsoft's bundling of MSN with Windows 95 was seen as a threat to consumer choice and competition in the online market.
• Case stated that Microsoft's actions were inconsistent with its stated goal of being pro-competitive and maximizing consumer choices.
• The issue at hand revolves around the need for a fair and open marketplace, where consumers can make informed decisions about the services they use.
• Microsoft's response to Criticisms will be crucial in determining the future of the online market.

Statistics:

• As of 1995, Microsoft's market dominance in operating systems was significant, with Windows 95 being the top-selling operating system.
• The online market was growing rapidly, with more consumers turning to the internet for information, communication, and transactions.
• The bundling of MSN with Windows 95 was seen as a way for Microsoft to control the online market, but it was also viewed as a potential barrier to entry for other online service providers.

Sources:

• America Online, statement released by President and CEO Steve Case
• PR Newswire - "America Online's Case Calls on Microsoft to Offer Equal Access to Multiple Providers of Interactive Services" June 9, 1995
• America Online, press release (exact date not specified)