Technology news and Jobs 
VIRTUALISATION Microsoft proposes retrospective browser ballot
VIRTUALISATION Microsoft proposes retrospective browser ballot | Microsoft proposes retrospective browser ballot |
|
| by Stephen Withers | |
| Monday, 27 July 2009 | |
|
Page 1 of 3   
Featured Whitepaper
5 Best Practices for Smartphone Support
Microsoft's initial response was to build Windows 7 E - a version of its new operating system that omits Internet Explorer - for the European market. OEM customers (PC vendors) would be free to install whatever browser they chose, and retail customers would be provided with an easy to use mechanism to install IE. This response went against the EC's suggested approach of providing a so-called ballot screen that would present a choice of browsers that could be installed. However, Microsoft believes that Windows 7 E is fully compliant with European law. The company has now shifted tack, and has offered to implement a ballot screen. Under the proposal, OEMs will still be free to install their choice of browser(s) and to pre-set any browser as the default. This could be Microsoft's 'get out of jail free' card, as unless a company behind a competing browser offers a financial incentive, it seems likely that OEMs will maintain the status quo in order to provide a familiar experience. But Microsoft's not typing both hands behind its back. And which browsers will appear on the ballot screen? Please read on. |
| < Next story in category | Previous story in the category > |
|---|
