Microsoft offers browser choices to Europeans
Starting today, march 1, users of Microsoft Windows will be asked if they want to install another browser instead of Internet Explorer. This his the fruit of a ten year struggle between the European Union anti-trust regulators and Microsoft.
But what does this mean to the average user?
As of today, Microsoft will push an update through Windows Update that will add a pop up window asking if the user would like to install another web browser. It will, however, not show for those who already have another web browser installed as their default browser.
According to the BBC, "Opera, Firefox, Chrome, Safari and Internet Explorer browsers are randomly ordered" on the screen where the users get to make their choice. I believe this is a good thing, it does not put focus on any browsers. Hopefully, even those who click on the first listed browser have a chance to get a decent web browser. Should you choose to stick with IE, you will be forced to upgrade.
Another couple of web browsers will be listed on the screen, but only if you scroll sideways. The ones they have chosen are ones that are not very known, but that might be potential browser candidates. These are Sleipnir, Green Browser, Maxthon, Avant, Flock, K-meleon, and Slim.
I gave a quick look at the websites of these browsers, some give the impression of being a bit home made, while others look far more complete and professional. I'll try a few of them out - some seem to have Linux versions - and get back to you on their actual quality.
Right, the quality of this post is a bit sub-par. I'll blame the early hour and the lack of sleep. As for the browser change, we can only wait and see what this does for the current market of web browsers. Hopefully we'll see a more even playing field now.
