Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) may be losing market share - but it's still the world's most popular web browser.
However, some argue that IE's dominance is due to the fact that it is bundled in with Windows, Microsoft's ubiquitous operating system. As a result, many millions of users stick with IE because they don't know enough about the alternatives, don't know how to install them, or can't be bothered to make the switch.
It's a view broadly taken by the European competition authorities, which ruled that Microsoft's bundling of Internet Explorer with Windows was an abuse of its dominant market position.
However, thanks to an agreement between Microsoft and the European competition authorities, users of Windows XP, Vista and 7 will be given the choice - from March 1st - to install one of the five most popular browsers: IE, Firefox, Opera, Chrome and Safari. After downloading an update, users will be given the chance to find out more about each before making their selection.
Of course, there's nothing to stop Windows users downloading all five if they want. However, even a small shift away from IE may enlighten more business leaders that inter-browser operability is essential for making optimal profits on the web.
If you'd like to make sure your own site works in all five top browsers, speak to our web design agency. We've understood for years that good web design is an essential component of search engine optimisation - and our clients appreciate it!
