Microsoft and Apple in talks to avoid challenge
eWeek | at | by Mike
Microsoft is talking with Apple Computer Inc. to avoid a challenge to a planned $1.1 billion antitrust settlement the computer maker claims gives Microsoft an unfair advantage in the education market. Microsoft has agreed to settle California consumer lawsuits accusing it of violating state antitrust law and driving up software prices. Apple, whose sales to U.S. schools fell 15 percent last year, says the agreement that would give Microsoft products to California schools amounts to unfair competition.
The talks indicate that Microsoft is seeking to prevent a prolonged battle to win court approval for the settlement, analysts say. Apple's complaints helped derail a proposed Microsoft settlement in 2001.