Jon,
Using your logic the DOJ would have the right to pursue any company for improving their product at the cost of the competition.
Why is it now suddenly a problem that MS incorporates a browser into the OS. Was it a problem that they include compression in OS? Was it a problem that they included backup software in the OS? Was it a problem that they included a disk defrag. in the OS? Was it a problem that they include TCP/IP or Novell IPX support in the OS?
This is how a product evolves. If it makes business sense to include Office 2001 in the OS, MS has the right to do it. If we take that away from MS we take that away from every company in the US.
Having a Monopoly in the US is not illegal. What is illegal is using monopoly power unfairly against the competition. MS's treats to box makers saying that if you want to sell our OS you must not install any other browser does seem to cross the 'unfair' line. The continued evolution of the OS does not, to me, cross that line. Yes they are using there dominate market position, like everyone else, to sell product. But, this is the advantage of having a dominate position.
Personally, I would like to have an OS with tons of stuff included. If I want more stuff I can buy it. Microsoft continues to benefit the software industry in many, many ways. The DOJ will not block win98 (IMHO), but they may pursue a break-up of MS. If not today, than within 5-10 years. I would bet on it.
As an investment, MSFT is a tremendous company filled with aggressive competitors who will not give up. The split-up of MS will also bring new opportunities.
JMO,
Chris
PS Long both MSFT, and CPQ. |
