Russia may increase oversight of Microsoft
The Russian government is exploring whether Microsoft deserves closer scrutiny under its antitrust laws, specifically whether the software maker should be added to a government-maintained list of companies with high market share.
A copy of the Russian edition of Windows XP Starter Edition. Russia was among the places where Microsoft tested the low-cost version of Windows aimed at first-time PC buyers.
(Credit: Microsoft)Being added to the list itself doesn't mean the company is under investigation, but rather that it must comply with laws governing firms that have a significant market share. Unlike in some regions, Russia starts keeping an eye on companies with even a relatively low share. Anything upwards of about 35 percent share could land a company on the list.
"Russian authorities have opened an inquiry into the PC operating system sector," Microsoft told CNET News in a statement. "We are cooperating fully with their review."
Why the company is just now being considered for the list is unclear.
Russia hasn't been a major regulator of Microsoft in the past. The company has faced scrutiny and oversight in the past in Japan and Korea, in addition to its well-documented battles with regulators in the U.S. and Europe.
Most recently, the E.U. has issued a preliminary finding that Microsoft's inclusion of a browser within Windows violates its antitrust laws. Microsoft has said that the E.U. might force the software maker to distribute other browsers and even disable some Internet Explorer code if a user opts for one of those rivals.
