14 DAY TRIAL // The first service pack for Windows Vista will not be just a standard refresh - as Microsoft has implied so far - after all. Windows Vista SP1 will bring to the table alterations of the operating system's built-in search architecture in terms of both functionality and design. The modifications to Windows Vista come as a result of a complaint filed by Google, alleging that the operating system's desktop search functionality was limiting consumer choices when it came down to selecting alternative desktop search products.
In the latest version of the joint status report on Microsoft's antitrust compliance, the United States Justice Department revealed that the Redmond Company has agreed to compromise and change the native search functionality in Windows Vista in order to integrate rival products. According to the report, the agreement has the "goal of promoting user and OEM choice for desktop search in Windows Vista."
"We're pleased we were able to reach an agreement with all the States and the Justice Department that addresses their concerns so that everyone can move forward," revealed Brad Smith, Microsoft's general counsel. Smith's position comes in contrast with the comments made by Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer at the end of the past week, in relation to Google's complaint that Vista's desktop search feature is in violation of the consent decree the Redmond Company had signed with the U.S. government. Ballmer stated that Microsoft was actually in complete compliance with the consent decree and that Google's allegations were baseless.
Following the introduction of the changes, Microsoft will give both the original equipment manufacturer and end users complete control over the default search program in Windows Vista, mirroring the process of setting up default web browsers or media players. Additionally, Windows Vista will incorporate links to the third party default search product in the Vista Start Menu and in Windows Explorer Windows, serving an alternative to the built-in Instant Search.