Microsoft drops out of the It's Our Net coalition

Filed in archive IPTV on October 30, 2006

I see a report in Broadcasting & Cable about Microsoft dropping out of the 'It's Our Net' coalition. That is the group of companies that is pushing for net neutrality.

The reason for the opting out has nothing to do with Microsoft changing its opinion about inserting strong laws in favor of net neutrality. Instead, the coalition is taking a stand on the AT&T/Bell South merger; seeking net neutrality as a condition.

Microsoft says it will not weigh in on mergers so it is withdrawing its name.

I don't see any mention of the fact that Microsoft's Foundation TV software is the key technology behind AT&T's IPTV service called U-verse. This IPTV service will be rolled out in 16 major markets soon. Many other Telco's around the globe also depend upon Microsoft, but the AT&T rollout just may be the one with the highest profile and largest stakes.

So, is Microsoft taking a stand on principle or does it want to see its key customer's merger go through? I know which way I vote!