14 DAY TRIAL // After Google has helped shape the first service pack for Windows Vista by contributing decisively to the alterations Microsoft will introduce to the default Windows Desktop Search mechanism, the Mountain View company has upped the stakes and wants to keep a close eye on the development of Vista SP1. Google has indicated from the get go that it was not completely satisfied with the changes Microsoft plans to introduce to the desktop search feature in Windows Vista, but went even further in its antitrust face-off with the Redmond company.
Google's new complaints target Microsoft's commitment to implement the modifications to the Vista built in desktop search functionality in Windows Vista SP1. The Mountain View company revealed that it wants Microsoft to offer a detailed description of both the changes and the availability date for the first Vista Service Pack. The Redmond company already agreed to assimilate third-party desktop search solutions into its latest operating system and to enable third-party developers to push the Windows Desktop Search mechanism into the background. This is not enough for Google.
"Microsoft has indicated that it anticipates making the changes to Vista set forth in the status report in "beta form by the end of the year"- Microsoft has made no commitment as to when it will ultimately implement the changes. Google respectfully suggests that the Court extend the term of the Final Judgment so that it may supervise the steps that Microsoft is taking, ensure that they are implemented appropriately, and ensure that they in fact "resolve any issues the complaint may raise under the Final Judgments." Without an extension, the Court may not have effective means to oversee Microsoft's implementation of these changes and determine whether they are effective in meeting the requirements of the Final Judgment," Google stated in an amicus brief submitted in the District Court of Columbia.
The Final Judgment that Google is referring to is the U.S. antitrust agreement against Microsoft which is set to expire on November 12, 2007. Google not only wants Microsoft to clarify the "proposed remedial measures" which will be an integer part of Windows Vista SP1, but also to set a timetable for the availability of the release and for the U.S. government to supervise the changes.