I wouldnt be surprised if the Microsoft plan is to hire the best and brightest Unix developers in a sort of raid of various companies. They did this to Borland a few years back to undermine their C++ product.
Also, since Linux source is free, is there any way Microsoft could simply package Linux and sell it at low prices targeting ONLY their small business clients? After all, its better if they get a little money and their competitors none. With 20 Billion in the bank, Microsoft could easily put together by far the best Linux distribution within, say, 6 months.
I really cant wait to see what Microsoft does to combat things. I am long Corel, but work with Windows NT Servers for a living, and the evolving Microsoft strategy I think will be one of the most interesting thing to watch next year.
Of course, even if Microsoft did the above, most Linux users hate Microsoft products only because, well, because they are Microsoft products! I have a feeling they could release an implementation that is 10 times better than any other (if this were possible) they would still have nothing to do with it. That is the power of the anti-Microsoft backlash, it really is something to see.
bob |
