“An unexpected stay order by the Microsoft trial judge allows
the software giant to continue what appears to be business as usual
without court-ordered restrictions. But some believe the judge’s
decision and the unfavorable publicity from two years of trial
proceedings have already tempered some of Microsoft’s (stock: MSFT)
behavior.”
“The glaring spotlight on Microsoft has given competitors
greater freedom to undertake new business development initiatives,
said George Washington University law professor William
Kovacic.”
“Others don’t think Microsoft has sustained injury. “If
Microsoft had shown any damage, others would have swooped in,” said
Chris Le Tocq, analyst at the Gartner Group. Until there are some
real changes put in place, it is unlikely there will be much in
actual response from competitors, he said.”