Microsoft launches new pre-Windows 7 anti-Linux offensive

David M Williams
Monday, 21 September 2009 17:14

Opinion and Analysis

Microsoft has been making steps to educate U.S. retailers that Linux is a limited operating system that works with only few peripherals or online services, and that what most customers want is Windows.

Microsoft has confirmed it developed materials that portray Linux as unsuitable for consumer use, and distributed these to retail sales staff around the United States.

Among its claims the sales materials asserts that Windows scores a “many” for compatibility with cameras, iPod and MP3 players, as well as for printers and scanners. Linux is rated as “few.”

The brochure scores Windows as having “extensive” software compatibility and Linux as being “limited.”

The materials give a big tick to Windows as having “authorised support,” “video chat on all major IM networks,” and being able to play “the games your customers want (e.g. World of Warcraft).”

By contrast, a red stop sign adorns the Linux columns for each.

Under the category “Window Live Essentials (e.g. Messenger, Mail, Photo Gallery)” the Windows column notes the product is a free download but is not supported under Linux.

Additional materials claim that Windows is “familiar and easy to use” and is “what most customers want.” As you might guess, Linux gets the stop sign for these categories.

Microsoft asserts the charts were “specifically developed to show sales professionals the important differences between Linux computers and Windows computers, so they are well equipped to help customers purchase a PC that gives them the experience they expect.”

The big danger with sales materials like these, and no doubt Microsoft’s hope, is that people will read them without any critical thought.