EU-version of Windows 7 will come without browser

[Skybird]

In the EU, Microsoft will release Windows 7 without any integrated web browser. Neither Explorer nor any other browser will be part of the package.

This is a reaction to the ongoing dispute between Microsoft and the EU over the claim that Microsoft is abusing a monopolistic position to keep rivals out of - or small in - the business. The argument that only Explorer is part of Windows, but neither Opera nor Mozilla are included by default, is part of that dispute.

In parts, in the past I supported the EU proposal. However, now that that Microsoft has radically changed it's strategy (to avoid certain legal consequences at the last minute) and now will not include ANY browser in windows 7 for the EU market, again the EU criticises them. They insist on that Microsoft should instead offer a diverse collection of browsers - that are in direct competition to Microsoft'S Explorer.

In other words - and this is where I have a problem with the EU demand - they want Microsoft to promote and distribute the products of their rivalling competitors.

I always argued against a totally liberal capitalistic market. I also always argued that some regulations of the market are needed in order to turn predatory capitalism, that functions at the cost of too many people only, into what in Europe is called "social market economy" that tries to acchieve a balance between the interest of the one and the social responsibility to protect basic interests of the many. As much regulation as needed - but as little as possible.

To prevent a company abusing a de facto monopole is one thing, and is okay for the sake of the superior common interest. But wanting to order a company that it should actively distribute the competing products of it's rivals, is absurd, and a serious distortion of the basic principle of market economy: the principle of competition.

I think the EU is overstretching its demands. On this detail it needs to step back.