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To: Ted Shelton who wrote (3194)	5/20/1998 10:04:00 AM
From: Jacques Tootight	Respond to of 4903

Ted, A couple of thoughts on your thoughts... You're right, the antitrust issue is not about browsers, but its not about portals either. I'm not 100% up to speed, but some of the things I've read indicate that this is about contracts. The illegal use of MSFT's monopoly with the OS to tie in distribution of other products. To illustrate, I'm in the process of shopping for a new computer. In obtaining quotes from manufacturers (Dell for example) I've requested to NOT have Office 97 installed. This can be done, but I CANNOT get a credit for it. So whether I want it or not I have to pay for it because the cost is built into the computer. This is what I think is at the heart of the matter and is certainly an illegal activity if MSFT has coerced the OEMs into purchasing Office or IE in order to obtain the OS. With regard to portals, you are absolutely 100% on the money. Its about media space. It'll be no different than radio or television. We have only just begun to see the action in this area. You won't recognize it in five years. These companies that are pioneering right now probably won't even be around. They are having fun now and being left alone because they aren't making any money. Once the big boys begin to see positive cash flow they'll swoop in and gobble up these peanuts. While I don't like some of his business practices, Gates IS a smart guy and can see the future coming. He's doing everything he can to protect what he believes to be his turf. I can't blame him for that. I can, however blame him for suppressing true software innovation in some areas due to his predatory business practices. We as consumers are simply NOT getting operating systems that are all they could be. Nice post, take care - RC

To: Ted Shelton who wrote (3194)	5/20/1998 6:07:00 PM
From: Kal	Respond to of 4903

I agree with your reasoning. I think Gates wants us to be too wrapped up in this browser gala. Meantime he works his way to the next big thing which is portals. He's a devil of a genius, IMO. Here's a scary thought, do you think Gates is playing too tough to be broken be DOJ, becuase he thinks this is better off for his empire? thoughts?