$613 million that is? The European Commission has fined Microsoft a record $613 million. What are they going to do with the money, further subsidize Airbus? Further subsidize French farmers? Lower German taxes? Give the money to Linux “research”? Send troops to Iraq?
I think that Microsoft is victim of anti-American sediment in Europe right now. The fine is excessive. It surpasses fines the Commission has imposed on price-fixing cartels and it sends the wrong message about antitrust enforcement priorities.
The US Attorney General’s Office agrees with me. "Imposing antitrust liability on the basis of product enhancements and imposing 'code removal' remedies may produce unintended consequences," US Assistant Attorney General Pate said. "Sound antitrust policy must avoid chilling innovation and competition even by 'dominant' companies. A contrary approach risks protecting competitors, not competition, in ways that may ultimately harm innovation and the consumers that benefit from it."
Come on now, Media Player? It sucks. Everyone downloads MusicMatch or WinAmp anyway. IE beat Netscape since Netscape took way too long to innovate (was years in-between releases). Media Player sucks and nobody really uses it.
So European Commission you showed your true colors Maybe the US should fine Airbus for dumping and price fixing.
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Disclaimer The opinions expressed herein are my own personal opinions and do not represent my employer's view in anyway.