Apple Patches QuickTime, Solves Browser Woes

Adapting to Microsoft's discontinued use of browser "plug-ins" -- a technology originally devised by Netscape -- in favor of ActiveX controls, Apple has released a fix that will allow playback of its QuickTime video within the latest versions of Internet Explorer.

Back in June, BetaNews reported that installing the IE 6.0 Public Preview effectively broke QuickTime's ability to function. It quickly became apparent that Redmond made alterations to its browser when customers installing Internet Explorer 5.5 Service Pack 2 experienced the same problem.

Over the past month, BetaNews has contacted Microsoft asking for an explanation of the problem. However, it appears that the ball was in Apple's court and it has subsequently moved to restore QuickTime's ability to provide playback.

To resolve the incompatibility with Internet Explorer, Apple has created a special
Web page to assist customers. The site will ask visitors to install an IE compatible ActiveX plug-in to enable QuickTime functionality.

The upcoming Windows XP, set to debut October 25, also requires the update.