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Story URL: http://networks.silicon.com/broadband/0,39024661,11029724,00.htm

Microsoft backs off in AT&T Broadband battle
No direct deal likely as Gates backs rival bidders...

By Ian Jones

Published: Wednesday 05 December 2001

Microsoft has backed off in the race to buy a stake in AT&T Broadband by agreeing to support two competing bidders rather than trying to secure a direct investment itself.

The Seattle giant has offered its conditional backing to both Comcast and Cox Communications - both rival bidders in trying to secure the division of the telco giant.

Microsoft had planned to go it alone, because of fears that AOL Time Warner might get there first, according to reports in the Financial Times. Now it believes it can achieve the same end result just by backing AOL's rivals.

For related news, see
Microsoft set to give AT&T $5bn
http://www.silicon.com/a49626
AT&T chief ponders spin-offs
http://www.silicon.com/a47546
Microsoft seeks to thwart AOL and AT&T deal
http://www.silicon.com/a46100