Microsoft has come under fire from lawmakers for the use of a software package it calls Streaming Software, which enables people to stream their own content online.
A House subcommittee on Tuesday voted to prohibit Microsoft from using the software for anything other than providing a “common platform” for streaming.
“It is a waste to use Streaming for such an important purpose, and we are deeply disappointed in the vote today,” Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., said in a statement.
The software is used by more than 1.3 million people across the U.S., according to a Microsoft representative.
It can stream music, videos and news, as well as the Web and Skype, the company said.
“The use of Streaming is a valuable tool for people to connect and share their thoughts and ideas online,” the representative said.
“While Microsoft is proud of the many ways it helps people in our communities, we cannot allow Streaming to be used for any other purpose than for providing a common platform for sharing content online.”
