Network Computing is part of the Informa Tech Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.

Microsoft To Ship Stripped-Down Windows In Europe: Page 2 of 4

"We've always been skeptical that there will be consumer demand for this additional version of Windows. The reality is this additional version we're required to make available will provide consumers with less," Smith said. However, the company will comply, he said. "We're being ordered to make it available, and we will. If we win and withdraw product in the market, we'll assess the best way to do that. We'll see what the future brings.

In the decision, the European court recognized four substantial arguments that Microsoft had made in its defense, and there's "substantial cause for optimism that Microsoft will win at the end of the judicial day," according to Smith

The European court ordered Microsoft to pay a fine of more than $600 million and to provide a version of Windows without Media Player after it found Microsoft liable for antitrust infractions last year. Microsoft paid the fine this year.

Smith said the software company will file more briefs by June 2005, and he expects hearings on the appeal to begin next fall.

"The litigation will continue for some extended period of time," he said. "This case may keep lawyers busy for months and some additional years before there is final resolution."