Microsoft to settle class-action lawsuit in North Carolina
SeattlePI | at | by Mike
Microsoft has agreed to settle a class-action antitrust lawsuit in North Carolina by setting up an $89 million fund to reimburse customers and buy computer technology for poor schools. The proposed settlement was made public Friday at a court hearing in Raleigh before Judge Ben F. Tennille, who hears complex business disputes. Tennille asked the lawyers to return for another hearing later this year when he will consider giving preliminary approval. He said he wanted to hear what the state Education Department thought about the plan.
The lawsuit accuses Microsoft of driving up prices by destroying competitors and by monopolizing the market with its software tied into its operating system.