Four years after they began their antitrust suit, nine states — now with far fewer partners — are finishing their arguments that Microsoft should face harsh punishments for antitrust violations.
In a case filled with equal parts legal and technological jargon, it's not always obvious how the outcome might change the way people use computers. Here's how:
Q: If the states win, would my computer look any different?
A: Computer makers like Dell and Gateway technically have the right to build computers with custom hardware and programs featuring brands like America Online, Lego or Harry Potter (news - web sites), but Microsoft's Windows operating system contracts make that difficult. Computer makers get steep discounts on Windows if their products start up fast and look a certain way, which rules out most customization. Companies rely on those discounts to stay competitive. One state proposal would disallow those types of contracts.
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