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Microsoft Windows XP

Microsoft has lost a lawsuit that could temporarily block the sale of PCs and other netbooks in China (registration required). A Beijing Intermediate People’s Court ruled on Tuesday that two sources that are used on Windows 98 SE, 2000, XP, and Server 2003 are not subject to a license from Zhongyi Electronic that Microsoft should make the sale of any of these versions the Chinese market. The two companies already had a licensing agreement, but disagree on what it covers.

Though the 98 SE, 2000 and Server 2003 have left the market, the measure could end many computers temporary budget in the populous nation. The release of Windows 7 is likely to allow companies to continue offering netbooks, but many pictures released before Windows 7, or those who do not meet the requirements, could be forced to leave the market unless Microsoft offers a solution .

The U.S. company has not said whether it intends to this approach, but plans to appeal the verdict and argues that the values of intellectual property rights and technology used only when you think you have a license to do so.