Microsoft Denies WMP Anti-Trust Accusations

Microsoft has issued a stern denial of charges that it is using its OS dominance to force customers to upgrade to Windows XP in order to get the latest and greatest media player. If users want to experience Microsoft's Windows Media Player 8.0 however, XP is indeed a prerequisite. Redmond justifies this decision by pointing out that Windows Media Player 8 relies on advanced technologies, which are only available in Windows XP.

Earlier this week, a group of tech industry activists known as ProComp, or the Project to Promote Competition and Innovation in the Digital Age, stated that Microsoft was utilizing "bolting practices both to violate the consent decree it agreed to in 1995, as well as both Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Act." In ProComp's online FAQ, it is stated that, "The Project to Promote Competition and Innovation in the Digital Age (ProComp) is composed of companies and organizations seeking to promote consumer choice in the electronic marketplace."

Many of these companies are anonymous supporters of the group, which ProComp claims is due to fears of reprisal by Redmond. ProComp's Web site contains numerous press releases that are highly critical of Microsoft, and even a "quiz" were a respondent is asked who invented MS-DOS. Hint: it was not Bill Gates.

Microsoft continues to use the defense that competitors are merely trying to stifle innovation. Windows Media Player competes with Apple's QuickTime, and RealNetworks' RealPlayer. Both companies offer free standard versions, but charge for special editions containing increased functionality. Microsoft Spokesperson Jim Cullinan offered BetaNews the software giant's take on the situation via e-mail.

According to Cullinan, "This PR attack by our competitors is an attempt to prevent Microsoft from innovating and improving our products. Multimedia support has been part of Windows since Windows 3.0. We have continued to improve these features along with other features in order to develop a compelling new product, Windows XP that meets the needs of today's customers."

He added, "The criticism by our competitors is confusing, because they seem to say that if we develop great features that consumers want, we should offer the separately. This makes no sense for innovation or consumers, and is a clear effort by our competitors to distract people from what a great product Windows XP will be."

What do you think, is Microsoft using its power to force upgrades to Windows XP, or should consumers simply be willing to use another piece of software? Post your opinions below.