That’s a Big Fine, Even for Microsoft

Microsoft Loses Antitrust Appeal
Techdirt
A European Union court has rejected Microsoft’s appeal of a $690 million antitrust ruling. As a result, Microsoft faces not only the significant fine and court fees, but could also be required to release unbundled software and share code with outside companies interested in designing products for Microsoft’s operating systems. Mike Masnick is puzzled by the ruling, arguing that it does not make life any easier for consumers. “The final analysis should depend on whether or not the customer will be better or worse off. It's not clear how the customer is any better off from this decision.” Microsoft could still appeal the ruling once more.

Yahoo Launches New Social Network
Mashable
Yahoo has just unveiled the beta version of Mash, its new social network. By all reports, Mash appears to be a somewhat stripped down version of more established rivals like MySpace and Facebook. The site features drag and drop customization, a number of optional add-on applications, and the promise to open its platform to outside developers. Sean Aune is not dismissing the effort, but does not yet see much reason to sign up. “I’m sure there is more to come down the road from the new site, for the time being, it just has a feel of a ‘poor man’s copy’ of Yahoo’s missed opportunity: Facebook. “

AOL Shifts Focus, Headquarters
Silicon Alley Insider
America Online is moving both physically and strategically. The company, which has announced plans to move to New York City, has launched a new advertising network comprised of a number of recent acquisitions. Platform A, Henry Blodget notes, will greatly expand AOL’s reach into the Internet advertising market, even while it signifies the end of the company’s days as a portal and service provider. “This is the final dagger in the back of the old AOL.” Blodget also points out that AOL’s profit margin will shrink substantially with ads placed outside of its network.