Microsoft profits from Linux again, easier than improving Windows Vista
By Matt Jansen
Ever since Microsoft announced that Linux may violate up to 228 patents, it has enjoyed sweet deals from companies looking to avoid lawsuits.
JVC is the most recent to seek such a deal. Microsoft just announced an expansion of “the relationship between JVC and Microsoft to promote the exchange of valuable information and the incorporation of patented technologies in their respective products.,” according to a company press release.
Typically, healthy businesses focus on providing value for customers through innovation and new products. But, Microsoft has discovered an easier way: attack companies not using Windows XP or Vista with a stuffed patent portfolio.
Ironically, that may be a better way to make money than trying to improve and remarket Windows Vista.
Microsoft refuses to identify which patents Linux may violate, and that provides a blanket threat for any company using the open source OS, including JVC. At this point it’s speculation that this deal addresses Linux specifically, but an elephant in the room is hard to ignore.
Also, Microsoft mentions “the agreement covers a broad range of consumer products each company manufactures and sells. Although the contents of the agreement, including the specific financial terms, are confidential, the parties indicated that Microsoft is being compensated by JVC.”
No innovation here, but plenty of cash.
Of course, from Microsoft’s perspective “the licensing agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 200 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio.”
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January 18th, 2008
i fucking hate microsoft…..what the fuck did linux do to you….and o btw look at vista, its 100% mac with a different look…….i love linux….and i hope windows dies
January 19th, 2008
i second that!
January 20th, 2008
Goes to show that MS is scared shitless about what GNU/Linux is really capable of. Bill Gates… How in the world can you stoop so incredibly low!?
I have lost all interest in Windows as of 2006! Go Mr. Tux, GO!!!
January 21st, 2008
Oh, I love Vista, or ‘Vasta’ as it is coming to be known. It has guaranteed that millions of hacked-off PC users will move to Linux and Macs!
January 21st, 2008
ROFLMAO GFG WINDOWS!!! Linux sucks and it always will, u cant play games on it, and it sucks. Linux will NEVER kill windows, if anything microsoft is just going to ahnillate linux like the trash it is. Linux does violate more than its share of MS pattents also, and I hope linux dies, and hopefully MS will put Linus Torvalds in jail where his communist, IP violating ass belongs. ALL HEIL BILL GATES AS GOD!!
January 23rd, 2008
Windows fanboys are so pathetic lol