How Microsoft Stops Competition And Harms Consumers

HOW MICROSOFT STOPS COMPETITION AND HARMS CONSUMERS

This image shows two circles labeled Software Developer (in the bottom left corner) and Consumer (in the top right corner) linked by a highway. Between the two circles are three red stop signs, from bottom left to top right, with a label in the center. Beside each stop sign is a box with additional text.

Stop Sign 1: Undermine Functionality Development and Product Support

• Restrict functionality
• Prevent developers from focusing on non-Microsoft products
• Deceive developers into supporting proprietary products
• Undermine compatibility
• Prevent support for competing products

Stop Sign 2: Close Down Distribution

• Exclusionary deals with Internet Access Providers
• Prevent computer manufacturers from preinstalling non-Microsoft products
• Commingling code to make it hard to preinstall non-Microsoft products

Stop Sign 3: Deny Customer Choice

• Force bundles so OEMs won’t install competing software
• Control the boot screen and desktop
• Restrict icons and add/remove buttons

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