“Microsoft has found itself on the receiving end of a second
European Commission investigation, over its proposed purchase
of a 29.9 per cent stake in UK cable company Telewest. The
Commission already has an antitrust investigation of Microsoft
building up steam, and earlier this week extended the deadline
for Microsoft to supply documentation until 15th April.”
“According to a statement issued today, the latest probe has
been launched because of the Commission’s concern over the possible
impact on competition in the set-top box market, and because the
deal might strengthen Telewest’s dominant position as “an exclusive
supplier of cable services to consumers within its franchise
area.””
“Funnily enough, Microsoft may turn out to be innocent, and only
collateral roadkill here. As we reported last month, Telewest is
proposing to use Liberate Technologies’ TV Platform for its
interactive services. Before being spun off Liberate was Oracle’s
NCI, Network Computer Inc., i.e. Microsoft’s opposition.”