Behind the big shift on Windows; a fear that consumers may go somewhere else tomorrow

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Corp. has taken a major shift in its strategic plans to meld its consumer and business versions of its Windows operating system into a single product. This change in strategy comes as the marketplace for personal computers has shifted from one based on office products to one more focused on consumer features and pricing. The company appears to be acknowledging that its strategy of producing one version of its operating system for desktop computers has left it exposed to competition from a number of other companies developing more consumer-friendly operating systems. Microsoft plans at least one more version of its Windows operating system for desktop computers, but plans to release a new version of Windows sometime in 2000 that will offer more consumer-oriented features with improvements in digital media handling, home networking, Internet features and easier installation. The company is also developing at least four different versions of its high-end Windows 2000 operating system, which was formerly called Windows NT. Some analysts think this strategy of differentiating its product lines could hurt the company by causing confusion among consumers.

United States, Product development, Marketing procedures, Planning, Company product planning, Microsoft Windows (GUI)

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Judge's ruling is a setback for Microsoft; company must market its browser separately

Article Abstract:

Microsoft must separate its Internet Explorer Internet browser software from its Windows 95 OS, according to US District Court Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson's temporary ruling. The ruling sided with the Federal Government and Microsoft competitors, who accused the PC computer industry giant of forcing PC manufacturers to bundle Internet Explorer as a prerequisite for licensing Windows 95. The Government also claimed that Microsoft had broken a 1995 antitrust settlement. Judge Jackson denied a Justice Department request to fine Microsoft $1 million a day unless it altered its policy, calling terms of the 1995 antitrust settlement 'ambiguous.' Judge Jackson, however, said Microsoft's packaging of new functions 'stops at least at the point at which it would violate established antitrust law.' The ruling, effective until Judge Jackson reaches a final decision, could impact the scheduled 2nd qtr 1998 release of Windows 98.

Cases, Laws, regulations and rules, Internet access software, Web browser, Web browsers, Government Regulation, United States. District Court. District of Columbia, Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 (Web browser)

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Sales seem brisk as Windows 95 hits the shelves

Article Abstract:

First day sales of Microsoft's Windows 95 operating system appear to indicate that the software will enjoy a successful debut. Computer retailers such as Comp USA and Egghead Software Inc reported full stores as customers finally had the opportunity to purchase the software industry's most anticipated product. Customers were also purchasing additional software and memory products. Indeed, analysts expect the product to stimulate demand for numerous other computer products and spur additional sales for the entire industry. Market research firm Dataquest is predicting that 14 million copies of the product will sell in the first few weeks with 30 million sold by the Jan 1996. Microsoft received additional good news with the report that IBM had signed a licensing agreement to include Windows 95 with its computers. However, Microsoft still must settle its alleged antitrust violations with the U.S. Department of Justice.

Systems Software Pkgs, Software, Product marketing strategy, Product Information

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