The big distribution channel they didn't close off was the Internet. DOJ's argument on that one was that downloading browsers is too "difficult" for peon, ignorant consumers, who always take the first browser that's offered to them with their PC's.
But there is some support for that argument, Gerald.
Still, many Americans appear to be embracing the information age tentatively, if not fearfully. More than half of all computer users, 52 percent, say they have never installed a software program -- a basic step in computing. While technology enthusiasts never tire of extolling the virtues of computers as personalized tools of empowerment, the Times/CBS poll suggests that a large share of the computer-using public has no interest in tailoring their machines or changing them.
This from nytimes.com , a polling article showing that the people still love the greater Bill. There's also other evidence collaborating this, in terms of what browser people use being dependent on what they see first, but it's older and not as easily searchable. I can dig it up if pressed.
I haven't been keeping up on the AOL buyout, I don't particularly like it but for reasons that have nothing to do with antitrust or business. Mainly, I worry that it moves Netscape away from the "open" camp back into the "proprietary lock" camp. I'll have to read some more about it before commenting further.
Cheers, Dan. |
