Microsoft Submits Tech Docs to EU

The European Commission said Monday that Microsoft was cooperating and had submitted documents to avoid further fines by the regulator. The documents are currently under review, however the EC said it was too early to say whether or not the information provided was sufficient.

Microsoft is facing larger fines beginning in August if it does not submit the required information, and the company had already been fined 280.5 million euros for failure to comply with a 2004 antitrust judgment. Altogether Microsoft owes the EU 777.5 million euro in penalties, further non-compliance could push that number far higher.

The Redmond company has called the EU's actions unjustified, and said the fine does not fit the offense. However, MIcrosoft has dragged its feet in providing clear documentation as required by the 2004 ruling, which is the primary reason for the additional fines imposed earlier this month.

Additionally, Microsoft turned the legal battle into a media circus, releasing confidential documents and publicly challenging the agency's authority. The EC's recent actions indicate that the regulator is determined to force Microsoft to comply through whatever means necessary, and it seems to be working.

Regardless, the company still plans to appeal the new fine. It is not clear if Microsoft would have any other legal recourse other than paying the fines assessed if it loses this this newest court battle. No date has been set for a hearing on that appeal.

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