Microsoft's net neutrality stance still cloudy

Microsoft still hasn't committed to a position on net neutrality.

It was one of the only major technology companies not to submit comments to the FCC on the matter when they were due last week.

Brad Smith, Microsoft's general counsel, said he puts the company "in the middle of the spectrum" when it comes to whether it thinks new rules are needed to guide Internet traffic.

While it is not an Internet service provider, many of its products depend on networks--both wireless and earth-bound--to reach consumers.

"If we're going to have new regulations, we would want those regulations to work well for the entire industry," he said in an interview this morning. "We of course want those regulations to be thoughtful."

Smith said Microsoft would file comments with the FCC during the next and final filing period before the agency votes on the issue.