Microsoft to randomize browser ballot for EU

Win7User512 said:

I don't know why MS doesn't just scrap this idea and simply present the user a prompt at first startup that states that they may choose a browser.

It is the only idea that the EU approved...all others (inlcuding yours) was scrapped

If a company makes a program, shouldn't they be allowed to put what they want on it? In effect, the EU is saying, "You can make the OS, but you've got to do it a certain way".

Here is a question: how does this apply to OEMs? Can they put their customized browsers on their machines before they sell them?

thats a good point... likewise, does this mean OEM's cant load their own branded bloatware onto it? or their own drivers? for instance, my gf bought a laptop with an intel chipset, however the intel website wont let her update the driver because its a "toshiba modifyed one" surely this falls into the same category?

I have an awesome idea.
The EU will hate me for it, and so will MS.... For a while.
So will a lot of you however, just bear with me.... Scream at me later.

When this first happened, ok MS presents a reasonable response. But no, its not good enough. So why doesnt MS just revoke all further sales and support to the EU? Yeah, they would lose revenue, but the idea is to make a point. Remove support from the Government and big corps that need it there, and suddenly there is a problem. The EU will have to bend to get them to come back...

Ok after typing that it does not seem as cool as I thought it was when I thought of it. But it might be the kind of response to wake the EU up to their RETARDED law making!

~Lordbob

Lordbob75 said:

I have an awesome idea.
The EU will hate me for it, and so will MS.... For a while.
So will a lot of you however, just bear with me.... Scream at me later.

When this first happened, ok MS presents a reasonable response. But no, its not good enough. So why doesnt MS just revoke all further sales and support to the EU? Yeah, they would lose revenue, but the idea is to make a point. Remove support from the Government and big corps that need it there, and suddenly there is a problem. The EU will have to bend to get them to come back...

Ok after typing that it does not seem as cool as I thought it was when I thought of it. But it might be the kind of response to wake the EU up to their RETARDED law making!

~Lordbob

given the original response of Microsoft, which was to turn round and just say "fine, we're not giving you a browser," i much prefer the "ballot" option, but surely, it should only be on NEW installs? for that matter, how would one go about installing a browser without one preloaded? am i right in thinking this would be impossible without using someone elses pc?

severedsolo said:

Lordbob75 said:

I have an awesome idea.
The EU will hate me for it, and so will MS.... For a while.
So will a lot of you however, just bear with me.... Scream at me later.

When this first happened, ok MS presents a reasonable response. But no, its not good enough. So why doesnt MS just revoke all further sales and support to the EU? Yeah, they would lose revenue, but the idea is to make a point. Remove support from the Government and big corps that need it there, and suddenly there is a problem. The EU will have to bend to get them to come back...

Ok after typing that it does not seem as cool as I thought it was when I thought of it. But it might be the kind of response to wake the EU up to their RETARDED law making!

~Lordbob

given the original response of Microsoft, which was to turn round and just say "fine, we're not giving you a browser," i much prefer the "ballot" option, but surely, it should only be on NEW installs? for that matter, how would one go about installing a browser without one preloaded? am i right in thinking this would be impossible without using someone elses pc?

Your right.

What I meant was a complete withdrawal. Just leave the EU. Completely. See how that feels.

~Lordbob

believe me, most of the UK would love to see that happen.... unfortunately our politicians seem to be in love with handing over our rights to Unelected officials....

but back to your original point, thats a terrible idea! why should we all suffer because some politicians have too much time on their hands and think up stupid laws?

Dear Mr EU Commissioner

Can you make the browser ballot in Windows 7 Multiple Choice as I have all the possible browsers loaded on my machine at any time

Barman58 said:

Dear Mr EU Commissioner

Can you make the browser ballot in Windows 7 Multiple Choice as I have all the possible browsers loaded on my machine at any time

like it, still failing to see why those of us who have ALREADY bought our copy of Win 7 have to choose our browser again though. Fair enough for new installs. but it just seems pointless to me