Boston, MA 08/26/2014 (wallstreetpr) – Two products of Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), viz. Windows media player and Windows web browser shall be affected in the investigation carried out by Chinese authorities. The antitrust investigation carried out by China is heightening the prospect of revisit of software bundling issue, in light of the antitrust grievances filed against the company in the West.
Microsoft Likely to be affected with Anti-Trust Probe
The State Administration for Industry and Commerce (SAIC) doubts that Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is not completely transparent in terms of its Windows and Office sales. However, it is also important to note that the Microsoft has already voiced out its willingness in co-operation with the investigations.
Statement from Law Officers
In context with this, Shanghai Debund Law Offices partner, You Youting said that at present, China is focussing only on two products of Microsoft on the basis of previous litigations, but the investigation could also extend beyond these two products. He also said, “It’s possible the government hasn’t been successful in finding what they’re looking for.” You Youting added, “But by starting with these two products, it gives them time.”
Microsoft under Investigation Lens in the Past
As Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Windows started gaining momentum in 1990s and 2000s, there popped up the issue of antitrust cases, which were brought by not just the U.S. authorities and the European authorities as well. The enduring case of the company with the U.S. Department of Justice was settled in the year 2001 and in the year 2004, the European Union asked Microsoft to shed out 497 million euro or $656 million as a fine, which was later increased to 1.4 billion euros. In fact, EU also ordered the company to produce non-bundled version of Windows sans Windows Media Player.
China: A Hub of Anti-Trust Investigations
The investigations on Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) came amidst several other anti-trust probes going on in China and some of these include QUALCOMM, Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM) and Daimler AG’s luxury car brand, Mercedes-Benz.
