Microsoft may give Windows 7 users the option to remove its Internet Explorer (IE) 8 web browser from the operating system.
The Aero Experience blog says build 7048 of the operating system benefits from the new 'Windows Features On or Off' function, which could potentially let users get rid of the browser.
Internet Explorer has been bundled with Windows for many years, a move which has created controversy. In January this year, the EU Competition Commission charged Microsoft with distorting competition in the market for web browsers by bundling IE with the Windows operating system.
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 review
"Given that this change doesn't exist in Beta 1, the odds that this change will persist through to RC are quite high," says the blog.
"There is a catch: for now, this only seems to wipe the actual executable running Internet Explorer 8. In addition, this actually takes two reboots and a configuration step to complete, so there's definitely something going on behind the scenes (likely a remapping of where IE-related functions can be found for other elements in Windows so that Windows doesn't complain about IE's nonexistence)."
Comments
Mike jenkins said: Im not happy about this especially after learning today firefox was initial thought up as a way of funding terrorism You would never get me using it
Dave tells it like it is said: I agree with Bob and iI also agree with Scotts point most people unhappy with IE most likely already have installed mozilla or opera anywaySo why dont the people who have done this go and find some other pointless argument to moan about Its a browser
Bob said: Does Safari not come with OS X does Firefox not get bundled with Linux Why is everyone pointing the finger at Microsoft An operating system without a browser is useless if they dont bundle a browser how are people going to go on the net and download an alternative
Bob said: Does Safari not come with OS X does Firefox not get bundled with Linux Why is everyone pointing the finger at Microsoft An operating system without a browser is useless if they dont bundle a browser how are people going to go on the net and download an alternative
Scott said: the inclusion of IE does get rid of the possibility of bothering to try any another browser i expect theyll now be making future operating systems amazingly basic to allow competition in so many other areas that were also considered basic windows functions good for companies not so good for the user wanting to save money to be honest most people unhappy with IE most likely already have installed mozilla or opera anyway
Mark Simpspn said: Ah Vista all makes sense nowFaced with action by various authorities including the EU to force them to remove IE from the Windows bundle they release an OS they know will tankSo they can then respond to user feedback and get Windows 7 out in a rush Thus explaining why they simply havent had time to unbundle IE properly from Vista and Windows 7Most users wouldnt take the time and trouble to go through all those steps to get rid of itI just hope the EU spank Microsofts bottom over it
David Miron (Soluto) said: Check out my CARTOON on this subject at wwwpcdisordercom