Apple resolves QuickTime, IE conflict

As previously reported, QuickTime failed to work with recent versions of the Internet Explorer browser running on the Windows operating system.

The incompatibility became apparent July 31 when Microsoft released an upgrade for Internet Explorer 5.5, dubbed SP2. Microsoft typically uses "service packs" to patch problems with its browser, but in this case consumers who installed it were unable to view QuickTime video.

According to information on Apple's Web site, consumers can download the software needed to correct the incompatibility. The site also provides information for Web developers to support the viewing of QuickTime content with Internet Explorer.

The QuickTime problem highlighted Microsoft's move away from "plug-ins", a technology pioneered by Netscape Communications to extend the function of Web browsers.

With IE 5.5, Microsoft discontinued support for plug-ins. Instead, the browser relies on technology developed by Microsoft known as ActiveX that links desktop applications to the Web. ActiveX is considered a challenger to Sun Microsystems' Java programming language, which Microsoft has said will no longer be supported by default in its pending Windows XP operating system and IE 6.

Evan Hansen contributed to this report.