EU to Test MSFT's Browser Ballot Screen Solution

Despite complaints from Microsoft's competitors it looks like the European Union is all but ready to approve the Redmond-based company's ballot screen proposal.

In July of this year, Microsoft proposed shipping a modified version of Windows to European customers. This version would include a ballot screen that would appear when the user tried to connect to the web, allowing them to choose a browser other than Microsoft's Internet Explorer.

The European Commission this morning released a statement detailing the satisfactory changes made to the proposal since it was first announced. The Commission went on to say that it would begin market testing the screen and on October 9, would formally invite comments from consumers, software companies, computer manufacturers and other interested parties.

Among the changes made by Microsoft is a brief explanation of what a browser is, as well as a "Tell me more" button for each browser.

EC Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes expressed positive opinions about the ballot screen proposal at a press conference today.

"We believe this is an answer," said Kroes. "I think this is a trustful deal we are making. There can't be a misunderstanding because it is the final result of a long discussion between Steve Ballmer and me."

Read the full statement from the European Commission here.