Microsoft's Vista challenged by the EU

Microsoft has been warned by the EU that if Vista does not comply with EU demands about "bundling", then they could be banned from selling it in Europe.

They highlighted Vista's integrated Internet search, digital rights management used to protect copyright and software that would create fixed document formats comparable to Adobe's PDF. EU regulators have also warned Microsoft against putting certain software-security functions into Vista.

But, apparently the approach by the regulators has arisen because Microsoft has asked them to check that Vista complies with recent EU regulations against Windows. That's very proper of them! Mind you, Microsoft is going to be treading a very fine line with Vista. After all, one of it's core competitive advantages is that it is a more integrated OS.

The more integrated it is, the more competitors will scream about bundling. Search, DRM and security look set to be the hot button features for possible violations. looks like Microsoft may need the delay to the launch of Vista to iron out all these potential issues!