obviously, many people felt that way - use of WP6 exploded upon its release - a full PT. release ahead of the version (7), capable of long file names, that would ship parallel to Windows 95 (which this case forgets, as the complainant attempts to secure money from Microsoft).
The better question, in light of the facts and the timeline, is how did this case move forward to this point?
I suspect the underlying reason is that architecturally, Windows 8 is really "that good" - as industry partners get ready (again) for a watershed event - the release of a unified architecture that allows developers to target all three screen scenarios with one set of tools and one base of code (though hitting the big screen can be accomplished via the cloud, Xbox, Smart TV's with embedded, and wireless HD (PlayTo, etc...)).
I know many of you will think that is a stretch, but in reality, the timeline is very short and the direction is quite clear. Sad as some may be about it, Windows 8 is going to do to mobile and (phones and slates) + embedded what Windows 95 did to the desktop, and this case against Microsoft in the context of the press it has received recently, is about trying to distract not only the company, but the industry.
Remember, there is a rising sentiment of "anything, but Apple....", with the exception of the talking heads on the news channels (the 40 plus crowd) that champions Apple mobile devices more than even the most die-hard of youthful fan. Serious business people hunger for a unified platforms approach and clearer, simpler means to target all device types with the same dollar. Microsoft is about to deliver that and once again dominate the information battle space - and once again, in ten more years, face even greater anti-trust pressure. A reluctant DoJ, given how 8's appearance will come about at a time when American innovation reignites more generally, will support a suit right around 2020. I likely will not be here to see it, but do remember what I have written here and why. Then get into the tools and really see why for yourself. Hope you all are well. Lloyd
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