Microsoft says new desktop must promote its products

Microsoft wants computer manufacturers to put at least three of its icons on the new Windows XP desktop.

The firm has announced the stipulation ahead of the October release of its new-look operating system.

The move has already drawn accusations that Microsoft is back-pedalling from its promise to loosen licensing restrictions. The company claims it is simply clarifying its policies.

The debate concerns which icons people will see when they turn on new computers after October.

A month ago, Microsoft said it would let computer manufacturers replace the icon for its Internet Explorer browser with competitors' icons. That came as a response to a US appeal court ruling that the company acted as an illegal monopoly.

Microsoft spokesman Jim Cullinan has now outlined the new provisions. He says that if the opening screen features any products from competitors, it also must feature three Microsoft icons - including Internet Explorer.

Computer makers will have the option of removing Internet Explorer completely from computers and replacing it with a rival browser. But if they do, Microsoft will require them to include its Movie Maker icon on the desktop instead.

Microsoft also will require icons for its MSN internet service and Windows Media Player on all desktops that feature competing products, such as AOL's internet access service or RealNetworks' music and video player.

AOL, which recently struck a deal with Compaq for exclusive placement of its internet service on the computer maker's desktops, has reacted angrily to Microsoft's decision.

John Buckley, AOL Time Warner's vice-president, claims the move shows that earlier talk of flexibility was "truly a farce", and states: "Microsoft's message to consumers, computer makers and the Government is 'We own the desktop and there's nothing you can do about it'."