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Microsoft's decision to remove language from a licensing agreement that has long rankled computer makers reflects a growing willingness by the software giant to tweak the way it does business, according to analysts.

Although the company is less willing to change the way it develops and markets its software, Directions on Microsoft analyst Rob Helm said the computer maker is eager to address regulators' concerns and is likely to settle a dispute that centers on contractual issues.

"Microsoft will show more flexibility on contract provisions than on things that require technical or design changes," Helm said.

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