04 July 2007

Google still unsatisfied with Windows Vista Search ruling

The Google versus Microsoft Windows Vista Search anti-trust saga seemed to have been cleared up with the US Justice Department ruling that Microsoft had to change its Vista desktop search settings a few weeks ago. But in another twist to the tale, Google have asked for permission to speak directly to the court in question.

The disagreement between the technology giants stems from default search functions built into Windows Vista by Microsoft, dubbed Instant Search, and a popular rival program developed by Google called Desktop Search. Both programs allow you to find files, documents and programs on your computer which relate to your search term. However, Google filed a complaint about Microsoft's offering saying that it violated anti-trust regulations.

Microsoft were ordered to implement a system which would allow users to choose their preferred desktop search option, similar to the way in which a default search engine is selected in Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser. Google also raised concerns about how rival desktop search programs were allowed to function on Vista, claiming that Microsoft ensured that these programs performed poorly when compared to their default offering.

The latest development in the case sees Google wishing to lobby the court in order to extend the anti-trust settlement's end date past November 12th 2007. Microsoft has made it known that it is planning to release a large update for Windows Vista in early 2008, in which the changes ordered by the court would be implemented. Google, however, seem to be concerned that if the anti-trust agreement ends in November, the changes proposed by Microsoft and agreed by the court may not be fully implemented.

Microsoft rebuked Google's advances to the court by re-iterating that the court had accepted the changes it proposed to make to its flagship operating system and that there was no need for Google to become involved in the case again. The overseeing judge appointed to review Microsoft's efforts to fulfil anti-trust recommendations since 2002, Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, sided with Microsoft on the matter stating that "Google is not a party in this case".

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