Microsoft Makes Small Changes To XP Over Antitrust Concerns

The report, part of the ongoing compliance check that the government conducts on the 2002 settlement which the DOJ and 17 states struck with Microsoft, noted issues with how Windows retains shortcuts even when some Microsoft applications -- dubbed "middleware" by the DOJ -- are deleted. When Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, or Outlook Express are disabled, the shortcuts made earlier aren't removed, the DOJ said.

Another issue relates only to the default browser on the system, and the fact that in parts of the OS, shortcuts to URLs or HTML files still appear with Internet Explorer's unique "e" icon, even though the site or file opens with the alternate browser.

Microsoft has agreed to change Windows XP so that disabling "middleware" also removes shortcuts from a number of places in the operating system, including the Start menu's All Programs listing, from the desktop, and from the Quick Launch section of the toolbar. It will also modify Windows so that an icon for the default browser -- or failing that, a generic icon -- will replace the IE icon for shortcuts to URLs and files.

In addition, the report noted that the government is, and will continue to, hold talks with Microsoft about Longhorn as it's developed. The DoJ also said it and the affected states would also evaluate the upcoming Internet Explorer 7 -- scheduled to hit beta this summer -- to make sure it complies with the settlement.

The report was issued prior to the scheduled June 6 hearing in Washington before U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, who regularly reviews Microsoft's compliance with the 2002 settlement.

DOJ's report can be found in both HTML and PDF formats on the government's Web site.