According to a European Commission draft decision, which is expected to win endorsement today, Microsoft has broken European Union competition law and must face sanctions.
Experts from the 15 EU states gathered today to discuss a landmark ruling that could change the way the world's biggest software company sells audio-visual software as part of its Windows operating system.
The draft requires Microsoft to share proprietary information with rival server makers and to provide computer manufacturers with a second version of Windows stripped of built-in audiovisual software, sources cited by Reuters say.
EU regulators have found that Microsoft has refused to halt its violations. Since continuing settlement talks have not produced a deal, the ruling sets out detailed plans to impose changes.
The advisory panel of national antitrust experts meeting today is also expected to endorse a fine of hundreds of millions of euros, but not until a second and final meeting on March 22.
