Microsoft has agreed to alter its forthcoming operating system to allow users easier access to outside providers of digital photo finishing services, Kodak announced Monday.
The change settles a dispute between the two companies over how the software giant presents access to third-party photo services.
The deal will make it easier for PC users who have attached digital cameras to their computers to choose a provider other than Microsoft for managing their digital photographs, according to a statement released by Kodak. Kodak had alleged that earlier versions of Microsoft's soon-to-be-released Windows XP operating system steered users away from third-party software options, giving it an unfair advantage over its competitors.
"The changes made to Windows XP are a positive move," Phil Gerskovich, a Kodak VP and CEO of the company's Digital and Applied Imaging division, said in the statement. "We look forward to working with Microsoft to continue to improve the digital photography experience in Windows XP."
As part of the deal, Microsoft will clearly label its own software in addition to providing an easily accessible list of third-party services available to users.
"Our goal for Windows XP has always been to deliver a great experience for customers and new opportunities for partners," Chris Jones, VP of Microsoft Windows, said in the statement. "Kodak is an important partner for Microsoft. We are pleased that we've been able to incorporate their feedback and will continue our communications on ways to improve the digital photo experience."
Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., supported the changes. A vocal critic of Microsoft, Schumer has argued that the release of XP should be delayed until charges that Microsoft is limiting consumer choice can be investigated.
"Hopefully this is the first in a series of steps so there's fair competition," Schumer told the Associated Press on Sunday.
XP is slated for release on Oct. 25.
