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Microsoft Blocks 3d-Party Browsers In Windows RT, Says Mozilla Counsel
nk497 writes "Mozilla has accused Microsoft of trying to go back to the 'digital dark ages' by limiting rival browsers in the ARM version of Windows 8. Third-party browsers won't work in the desktop mode, and Metro style browsers will be limited in what APIs they can use, said Mozilla general counsel Harvey Anderson, forcing users to move to IE instead. Mozilla said it was the first step toward a new platform lock-in that 'restricts user choice, reduces competition and chills innovation,' and pointed out that such browser control was exactly what upset EU and U.S. regulators about IE in the first place. Anderson called on Microsoft to 'reject the temptation to pursue a closed path,' adding 'the world doesn't need another closed proprietary environment.'"
If the APIs in question are proprietary to Microsoft, they have every right to tell third party developers to use neutered versions or go fuck themselves. Harvey Anderson seems to be ignorant of the fact that comparing desktop and mobile OS lock outs is a totally illogical argument.
Don't like it? iOS and Android are much more popular alternatives, so you're hardly losing out as a result.