"There is always enthusiasm in our business for new concepts. So-called 'free software' is the latest new thing. We will rise to this challenge." -- Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer in June 2003.
"Nobody talks as much today about the risks in our business that come from Linux and open source. They're still there, they're going to be there every day, and yet we've done a very, very good job, I think, in the marketplace versus those risks." -- Steve Ballmer last week.
That second comment didn't get much attention during Microsoft's meeting with Wall Street analysts Thursday. Investors are more focused nowadays on the company's big financial gamble on Internet services. But the statement stood out as I was going back over my notes. Kevin Turner, Microsoft's chief operating officer, elaborated on the theme during his speech, comparing Windows Server and Linux shipments.