SAN FRANCISCO: Microsoft said Thursday that it would make important technology elements of some of its best-selling software products widely available, to increase the compatibility of its software with that of competitors and customers.

Microsoft said it would publish vital software blueprints, known as application program interfaces, pertaining to the high-volume products on its Web site, which will make connecting its products with third-party software easier.

Microsoft also pledged not to sue open-source developers for the noncommercial distribution of those software blueprints.

“These steps represent an important step and significant change in how we share information about our products and technologies,” said the Microsoft chief executive, Steve Ballmer.

In January, the European Commission began a new antitrust investigation into Microsoft to see whether the company broke competition rules to help its Web browser and its Office and Outlook products.

Microsoft said it would provide the commission with information to allow it to evaluate the companys changes.

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