If memory serves, later versions of IE have effectively disabled things like auto-sound. And in the case of IE7, apparently retention of cookies. I'm getting very annoyed at having to log in again anytime I'm inactive, and I really count on cookies to keep me logged in at sites I rarely use and for which I can't always remember my login information.
On the other, I'm not sure what you're saying but am sure John will see this message and check into it or follow up with you.