“CMGI is rallying Internet companies to demand further
government scrutiny of America Online’s pending merger with Time
Warner, citing AOL’s refusal to open its instant messaging services
to rivals.”
“iCast and Tribal Voice–both privately held, CMGI
majority-owned firms–have requested support from Web giant Yahoo
and cable Internet service provider Excite@Home, among others.
iCast and Tribal Voice could present a letter to regulators by the
end of the week, according to sources familiar with the plans,
provided enough companies in the industry sign on.”
“A source close to Excite@Home said the company plans to sign
the letter. The company declined to comment on the issue. However,
a Yahoo spokesman confirmed the letter has been received and that
the company is “evaluating it now.” Should they decide to take
action, iCast, Tribal Voice and their potential allies will likely
forward the letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
by May 11, the agency’s deadline for public comment on the AOL-Time
Warner merger.”