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MS, in a brilliant strategy designed ito multiply the number of people using Linux on the desktop by several orders of magnitude, will tightly integrate DRM into the next version of it's operating system.
For the first time, the Windows operating system will wall off some audio and video processes almost completely from users and outside programmers, in hopes of making them harder for hackers to reach. The company is establishing digital security checks that could even shut off a computer's connections to some monitors or televisions if antipiracy procedures that stop high-quality video copying aren't in place.
In short, the company is bending over backward--and investing considerable technological resources--to make sure Hollywood studios are happy with the next version of Windows, which is expected to ship on new PCs by late 2006. Microsoft believes it has to make nice with the entertainment industry if the PC is going to form the center of new digital home networks, which could allow such new features as streaming high-definition movies around the home.
Personally, I like Unix. A lot. I use it everywhere I can at work. At home, however, I've tended towards MS platforms for simplicity and convenience. It's not that I can't make Linux play nice with Windows, it's just easier to deal with all the people that aren't also on Linux when I have Windows. Sure, I give up a fair amount of power and utility, but it's been (on balance) easier with Windows.
Now, this changes. If MS is going to block me from using the full range of power that I desire out of my machine, then I'm not going to go with MS. It's just that simple.
Thanks to Cory for the tip, who also has a pretty sage observations:
Microsoft is cutting its throat here. There isn't a single Windows user who wants a version of Windows that lets her do less with her music and movies.
This could be the strongest play for open source yet....
Posted by Casper at August 31, 2005 09:08 PM