Microsoft start juridische procedure om broncode Windows geheim te houden (en)

Microsoft has filed a new lawsuit against the European Commission challenging a Brussels order that the software giant divulge technical information.

The company had already appealed the commission's general ruling from 2004 that it had abused its dominance of its Windows operating system.

Brussels fined the company 497 million euros, and called for strict implementation of measures that would improve the position of its competitors.

The EU executive refers to Microsoft's Windows computer operating system, which has an in-built music player and video software, as the main subject of its monopolistic tendencies.

But the Washington-based company is now taken issue with the commission's request that it should reveal details of its Windows software codes, so as to enable its rivals to design compatible products.

Microsoft does not want to share the information with open software producers, which could publish the technical details the firm considers confidential.

The firm's complaint is addressed to the EU's Court of the First Instance. Its previous file, challenging the commission's decision on sanctions, was turned down by the court.