China investigates Microsoft over Windows browser bundling

China's focus on two products previously targeted elsewhere appears to form the basis of its investigation, but the probe could be extended beyond the media player and browser bundling issue, said You Youting, a partner at Shanghai Debund Law Offices.

"It's possible the government hasn't been successful in finding what they're looking for," You said. "But by starting with these two products, it gives them time."

A Microsoft spokesman declined to comment.

The Chinese investigation of Microsoft comes amid a spate of antitrust probes against foreign firms, including mobile microchip maker Qualcomm and Mercedes-Benz. The probes have renewed fears of Chinese protectionism.

The SAIC said earlier this month that Microsoft had been suspected of violating China's anti-monopoly law since June last year in relation to problems with compatibility, bundling and document authentication for its Windows operating system and Microsoft Office software.

The SAIC, one of China's three anti-monopoly regulators, formally announced its investigation into Microsoft's activities this month after officials raided Microsoft offices in several major cities and met Microsoft Deputy General Counsel Mary Snapp for questioning in Beijing.

"The investigation is presently ongoing, and we will disclose the results to the public in a timely fashion," Mr Zhang said, adding that the probe is one of nine opened this year which include the software, tobacco, telecommunications, insurance, tourism and utilities sectors.

The companies involved in the nine investigations comprise domestic, foreign, state-owned enterprises and trade associations, Mr Zhang said.

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