In August 2009, Microsoft announced the cancellation of the Windows 7 E edition in Europe, a version of the operating system that was to be shipped without the Internet Explorer (IE) browser. This decision was made in response to antitrust concerns raised by the European Commission regarding Microsoft's bundling of IE with Windows.

Background and Context

The European Commission had been investigating Microsoft's practice of including Internet Explorer with its Windows operating system, arguing that it could stifle competition by favoring its own browser over others. In response, Microsoft proposed the Windows 7 E edition, which would be distributed in Europe without IE, allowing consumers to choose their preferred browser. However, this move faced criticism from computer manufacturers and partners who expressed concerns about potential consumer confusion and the complexity of offering a version without IE. (computerworld.com)

Microsoft's Decision

Dave Heiner, Microsoft's Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, stated that the company decided to ship the same version of Windows 7 in Europe as in the rest of the world. He cited feedback from computer manufacturers and partners who worried about the complexity of changing the version of Windows shipped in Europe if the ballot screen proposal was accepted by the Commission. Additionally, there were concerns that introducing Windows 7 E, only to later replace it with a version of Windows 7 that includes IE, could confuse consumers about which version of Windows to purchase. (computerworld.com)

Implications and Impact

By abandoning the Windows 7 E edition, Microsoft aligned with the European Commission's preference for a ballot screen—a mechanism that would allow users to choose their default browser during the Windows setup process. This approach aimed to address antitrust concerns while maintaining a consistent product offering across different regions. The decision also highlighted the challenges Microsoft faced in balancing regulatory compliance with user experience and market dynamics.

Technical Details

The Windows 7 E edition was intended to be identical to the standard Windows 7 edition, with the sole difference being the absence of Internet Explorer. Users would have been required to install a browser of their choice separately. However, due to the cancellation, the standard Windows 7 edition, which includes IE, was made available in Europe. Microsoft also proposed a ballot screen that would present users with a choice of browsers during the initial setup, ensuring compliance with the European Commission's requirements. (computerworld.com)

Conclusion

Microsoft's decision to cancel the Windows 7 E edition in Europe was a significant response to antitrust scrutiny and reflected the company's efforts to navigate complex regulatory environments. By opting for the ballot screen approach, Microsoft aimed to provide consumers with choice while maintaining a unified product strategy.

References