Sure, John. Pitiful is as pitiful does. I'd expect you to appreciate an article consisting entirely of Microsoft spin.
Microsoft could have asked for clarification at any point, but it chose to lift only the middle finger in its efforts, until the end. Not that it really matters, it was clear from the start of this little escapade that Microsoft could cave totally and it wouldn't make any difference. The OEMs that Microsoft initially had to straighten out on the correct attitude toward the sacred icon now all understand. They got a little legal cover if they want to excercise freedom of religion, but they still got to go back and renegotiate those licenses every 6 months or so. The OEMs are therefore sincere in their professions of love for Microsoft. I'm sure they all love those non-disclosable negotiations and the contracts they lead to.
Of course, the new, improved, kinder, gentler Microsoft would never think of using coercion on those OEMs. A new era of ethical, courteous relations has been established. Meanwhile legions of Microsofties are off scratching their heads over why they got all this bad press, and contemplating a diet of worms. Hearts and minds wise, I thought the execise was educational enough. It was just a skirmish anyway, there are more, bigger battles to come.
Cheers, Dan. |
