Microsoft banned from selling Word!

The great Empire of Microsoft stands on two pillars: Windows Operating System and Microsoft Office. These are the two products which enable them to produce everything else - often at a loss. Some might argue that the XBox has become a third pillar, but most consoles are still sold at a loss.

Now, the Empire is threatened as a Texas judge has ordered Microsoft to stop selling Microsoft Word - an essential part of Microsoft Office - within 60 days over an alleged patent infringement in the handling of XML-based files. This is akin to Ford being banned from selling trucks or Sony from selling CDs and DVDs.

Most commentators believe Microsoft will be able to appeal and overturn the order before it becomes effective. But this may be the most direct threat to the software giant since the European anti-trust cases.