Microsoft's Breakup Solution
by Rick Smith (November 7, 1999)
Based on these reasons, Microsoft should sell the OSes (all of them) to the highest bidder and sign a contract that they wouldn't develop a competing operating system. Once Microsoft gets the check and it clears, they would then embark on a strategy to completely eliminate the need for a Windows-style, "fat" operating system.
Would this be radical? You bet. Would this be a complete about face? Sure. But, look at the precedents: Bill allowed the GUI to overthrow his DOS command-line, he discovered the Internet after betting on MSN, and he keeps revamping Windows CE after its thundering thud in the PDA marketplace. You've got to believe that swayed by the above reasons, Mr. Gates could undergo an open-source, thin-OS conversion experience. Besides, by shucking that old-time OS religion now, he could avoid getting spanked in court and reap billions in the process. Which would you choose?
It will be interesting to ponder who some of the potential buyers for Windows may be. Even with the weaknesses I have outlined, Windows is still a market leader with a 95% market share and there will be people lining up with billions to buy it!
Copyright
© 1999 Rick Smith All rights reserved.
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