Microsoft moves to appease Commission in antitrust case

"Ballot screen" will allow easy installation of competing web browsers

The move could enable Microsoft to ship Internet Explorer with Windows

Microsoft has proposed a "consumer ballot screen" to assuage European regulators' concerns over its tying of its Internet Explorer web browser with its Windows operating system.

Under the proposals consumers would be shown a "ballot screen" from which they could easily install competing web browsers, set one of those browsers as a default, and disable Internet Explorer.

It also includes a public undertaking designed to promote interoperability between third-party products and a number of Microsoft products, including Windows, Windows Server, Office, Exchange, and SharePoint.

The deal would allow Microsoft to include Internet Explorer as a bundle with its Windows 7 software.

The move is the latest in a series of negotiations over the tying of Internet Explorer to Windows.

In January, the European Commission sent a Statement of Objections to Microsoft - a formal step in Commission antitrust investigations in which the Commission informs the parties concerned in writing of the objections raised against them.

The Commission will now solicit public comment as it considers Microsoft's proposal.

Last week, Microsoft said its next-generation Windows 7 operating system was ready for delivery to computer makers. It will continue to provide the software in its current form to PC manufacturers in Europe until the Commission comes to a decision.

Brad Smith, general counsel for Microsoft, said in a statement: "We believe that if ultimately accepted, this proposal will fully address the European competition law issues relating to the inclusion of Internet Explorer in Windows and interoperability with our high-volume products."

Microsoft's proposals are published in full on its web site.