EU to rule on Intel’s ‘illegal’ marketing practices
Intel could face an antitrust lawsuit from the European Union following allegations that Intel used illegal marketing practices to push its main competitors out of the market.
Regulators are looking into claims that Intel paid computer manufacturers to postpone the launch of products containing chips from Advanced Micro Devices. Intel is also accused of providing further rebates as an inducement to retailers to promote machines with Intel cpus.
Investigations began eight years ago and Intel was formally charged with abusing its dominant market position in July 2007.
The violations are alleged to have occurred over a period of eight years and, once it has made a ruling, the EU could demand up to10% of Intel's annual worldwide revenues. This would equate to approximately $4billion in penalties.
The announcement comes as Craig Barrett is standing down as executive chairman.
