SEATTLE -- Here's a possible slogan for Microsoft Corp.: If you can't beat 'em, join the guys who are having the same problem.
Redmond-based Microsoft struck two deals this week with sometime adversaries to take on mutual competitors. Analysts say the deals with RealNetworks Inc. and Yahoo Inc. could signal a return to Microsoft's roots of successfully challenging IBM by finding the right allies. Both agreements also show how seriously Microsoft takes competitors, including Google Inc. and Apple Computer Inc.
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