Microsoft Corp claims QuickTime’s failure to perform on certain versions of Windows is due to Apple Computer Inc’s programming errors, and not to sabotage on the part of Microsoft. Apple senior VP Avadis Tevanian last week accused Microsoft of breaking QuickTime on Windows in order to reinforce the dependence of applications on its own operating system (CI No 3,529). Specifically, Microsoft claims Apple’s programmers disregarded Netscape’s directions on how to write a plug-in. Consult Netscape’s directions, which are on the web at http://help.netscape.com/kb/client/980424-2.html, and you’ll find a document titled Adding helper applications (MIME types) types via the Windows Registry. The company adds this disclaimer: This information is provided for your information only. Modifying the Registry is not supported by Netscape. Netscape will not be responsible for problems which may occur as a result of modifying the Registry. Tevanian claimed in court that Microsoft uses the Windows Registry to give its own software an advantage. Microsoft accuses Apple of failing to follow instructions on how to hack the Registry, instructions even the provider warns can lead to problems. This doesn’t exactly strengthen Microsoft’s case. Strangely enough, though, Microsoft itself has been able to develop a fix for the problems in QuickTime. This fix available for download from Microsoft’s Developer Network web site. Though it is clearly not Microsoft’s responsibility to provide fixes to another vendor’s product, we decided to offer the fix to customers because we feel they should not pay the price for Apple’s programming mistakes, groundless allegations and courtroom antics, said Microsoft’s Developer Relations Group general manager Todd Nielsen. Apple could not be reached for comment.
