LEON HARRIS, CNN ANCHOR: Microsoft today gave computer makers permission to remove some of its products and include competitors' on computer desktops. That is the all-important first screen that you see when you turn on your computer. Our Allison Tom explains why the so-called "Beast of Redmond" is now acting downright unbeastly.</s>ALLISON TOM, CNN CORRESPONDENT: The software company's move is a major shift for what PC manufacturers will offer consumers. It's a signal to the Justice Department and to the courts that they're willing to play nice.</s>ERIC SCHEIRER, ANALYST, FORRESTER RESEARCH: They know that there are many battles on which this is being fought out, and so they're trying to make a statement and the ones that they can where it won't do that much damage to their business.</s>TOM: Microsoft competitors will have new opportunities to get their name and brand in front of consumers. Names like AOL or Real Networks could be on the box the next time you go to a retail store to buy a PC. Analysts say the move still puts Microsoft in a position to dominate what's to come.</s>SCHEIRER: They have a lot of irons in the fire right now where they're trying to launch Windows XP, they're trying to launch the X- Box, they're trying to launch a variety of new consumer services. And to be doing this under this constant threat and scrutiny from the Justice Department is very, very difficult for them.</s>TOM: Microsoft's launch of XP is still expected this fall. Allison Tom, CNN.
Microsoft Gives PC Makers Permission to Alter the Desktop