Knowing the ABCs of the antitrust case against Microsoft
Article Abstract:
Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser is a separate product that has been bundled with Windows 95, but does not constitute a discrete product that cannot be separated. The antitrust dispute between Microsoft and the US Justice Department hinges on whether Internet Explorer is an 'integrated' Windows 95 feature, as Microsoft claims, or a separate product that Microsoft is forcing computer manufacturers to accept before selling them a Windows 95 license. Internet Explorer, from a practical standpoint, is a powerful application program that allows users to browse the World Wide Web. Microsoft sells and distributes Internet Explorer as a standalone product, unlike its basic Windows 95 applets that enhance functionality. A Windows 95 feature lets users to install and install applications programs, which list Internet Explorer. Windows 95 users also can add and subtract some Windows' base components and applets, but Internet Explorer is not included among them.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Now, Microsoft gets all warm and fuzzy with new Barney toy
Article Abstract:
Microsoft's Microsoft Actimates Interactive Barney is a stuffed toy with a range of features which should appeal to users between the ages of two and five. The 16-inch high purple Barney contains a 2MB memory chip that powers a 2,000-word vocabulary, 17 songs and 12 games. Addtional accessories and software enable Barney to interact with PC CD-ROM games or TV videotapes. Squeezing Barney's hands and feet, or covering its eyes, prompts a recorded response. Extra security for the six-battery pack and flexible plastic arms protect the toy from a child's rough play. Radio signals between the computer and Barney allows the toy to offer helpful hints during the CD-ROM game's various learning activities. Drawbacks to Barney include an unimaginative 55-minute video, hidden expenses and required operation with Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Barney costs approximately $99, and other costs comprise two $59 accessory kits, $29 CD-ROMs and $15 videos.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Microsoft programs for the Web, E-mail outscore Netscape's
Article Abstract:
Microsoft's free Internet Explorer 4.0 browser (IE4) and companion Outlook Express e-mail program hold a clear edge over Netscape's latest Navigator browser and Messenger e-mail software versions. The Microsoft products have rank among the company's best-ever, largely by simplifying the Web and e-mail for average users. IE4's top feature is its Explorer Bar, which gives users easy customization of Web sites and 'push' offerings. The only IE4 downside is its current incompatibility with pre-Windows 1995 and Mac versions. Outlook Express (OE) outperforms all other Internet e-mail programs, including the Eudora mail program. E-mail is divided into three customizable panes that appear on the screen for scanning and sorting. OE, which features an excellent address book, also extends its new mail search to multiple e-mail accounts at multiple service providers.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Sun lawsuit is latest shot at Microsoft. Microsoft returns fire at the U.S., rivals
- Abstracts: Upcoming book to provide grist at the Microsoft trial; company intends to shift focus to Netscape
- Abstracts: Envisioning the era of the $500 PC. Compaq profit slightly beats expectations
- Abstracts: Tiny Rex, the size of credit card, holds all your names, dates. Faster, cheaper, still out of control, but Web TV is better
- Abstracts: High-tech companies battle over the value of donated software; Microsoft gives 'millions' to charity, but critics question the true cost; 'junk bonds of philanthropy.' (IBM challenges Microsoft) (Company Business and Marketing)