Microsoft exits US government's anti-trust doghouse

Microsoft is set to end its anti-trust oversight period, put in place by the US government as a penalty for the firm's behaviour over Internet Explorer.

A US District Court has ruled that that Microsoft will no longer be subject to the terms of its landmark anti-trust judgement, and restrictions will formally expire on 12 May without an extension.

The move will end restrictions placed on the company more than a decade ago, when courts found Microsoft in violation of copyright laws with its practices in bundling software with its operating system, as well as its dealings with partners and competing developers.

More recently, Microsoft has also been criticised for its ability to offer clear documentation for developers.

In its most recent progress report filing, the Department of Justice said that the issues have been resolved, and vouched for the terms of the settlement to be lifted.

"Plaintiffs' overall assessment is that the documents are of sufficient completeness and quality such that the Communications Protocols, as defined in the Final Judgements, are 'available for use by third parties'," read the filing (PDF).

"Accordingly, Plaintiffs believe is it appropriate to allow the Final Judgements to expire on May 12 2011."

More recently, Microsoft has seen itself on the other side of anti-trust proceedings. The company has been among those that have filed complaints against Google for anti-trust violations in the search market.