Mozilla, Google cry foul over Windows tablets

Mozilla® and Google, makers of the Firefox® and Chrome™ web browsers, respectively, have sounded off against Microsoft® and its plans to restrict the use of third-party web browsers on Windows® tablets.

In a post on the official company blog, Mozilla general counsel Harvey Anderson claims Windows RT -- the version of Windows 8 that will run on ARM-based tablet computers -- will only support Internet Explorer® when running in Classic desktop mode. Third-party browsers will be restricted to Windows' touch-focused Metro mode.

Anderson calls the move an "unwelcome return to the digital dark ages," claiming that restricting other browsers "reduces competition and chills innovation."

Google has echoed Mozilla's ire, telling technology news provider CNET that the increased competition in the web browser space inspires innovation and ultimately leads to a better product.

Some have called Google and Mozilla's responses unreasonable, noting that Windows RT will not all-out ban the third-party browsers. Business Insider questions why the same outrage hasn't been raised against Apple®, whose iOS devices don't support Firefox or Chrome at all.

It is important to note that the restrictions are exclusive to Windows RT, and third-party browsers will be able to run on all other versions of Windows 8, including those designed for Intel-based tablets.