Microsof agreed to change its Windows Vista operating system in response to complaints its desktop search function puts Google Inc. and other potential competitors at a disadvantage, according to a U.S. Justice Department report issued late Tuesday. (File Photo)

    BEIJING, June 20 (Xinhuanet) -- Microsof agreed to change its Windows Vista operating system in response to complaints its desktop search function puts Google Inc. and other potential competitors at a disadvantage, according to a U.S. Justice Department report issued late Tuesday.

    The report said Microsoft will create a "mechanism" for computer users and manufacturers to select a default program to handle desktop search, the Justice Department said.

    "This is a positive step that will allow greater access by competitors," said the Connecticut attorney general, Richard Blumenthal.

    In April, Google made a complaint to the Justice Department and state claiming that Vista's desktop search tool slowed down competing programs, including Google's own free offering. The 49-page document said that it is difficult for users to figure out how to turn off the Microsoft program.

    But, Microsoft executives earlier this month dismissed the allegations, saying regulators had reviewed the program before Vista was launched.

    However, Microsoft's general counsel Brad Smith said in an interview last week that the company was willing to make changes if necessary.

    "We're pleased we were able to reach an agreement with all the States and the Justice Department that addresses their concerns so that everyone can move forward," Smith said.

    Under the compromise, Microsoft agreed to allow more ways for PC users to access competitors' desktop search programs, according to the report. The company will create a way for users to set their PC to default a search program of their choosing. So, for instance, users could set the "Search" button under the Start menu of a Vista PC to always use Google's desktop search program.

    Microsoft also agreed to provide PC makers and software makers information on how to write desktop search programs to run more smoothly on Vista PCs.

    Microsoft's changes will be included in a previously scheduled update, called Service Pack 1, to Vista due later this year.

    The update in software can be downloaded over the Internet that will include any number of additions to Vista, including software to fix bugs and other problems.  

    (Agencies)