Why Software Piracy is Good for Microsoft

jcphil writes "Salon has an article that explains why Microsoft has toned down its anti-piracy actions in China and other developing markets. The answer is simple: due to the network effect, the more users you have, the greater your strength in the marketplace. And it doesn't matter if their Windows is pirated or not. So, in effect, software piracy in countries like China helps Microsoft to compete with Linux." Meanwhile, the RIAA doesn't feel the same logic applies to record sales in the U.S., and has started an ad campaign to convince the public that sharing music hurts artists.

Comments

Timothy, you fucker

[Uttles]

Damnit, at least you could have given me some credit for submitting that link instead of attaching it to another story. Thanks a lot.

Re:Timothy, you fucker

[sulli]

But look - he got the karma anyway! (As if it matters since karma is Obfuscated now.)

Re:Microsoft has always done this

[joshsisk]

Why the question marks? This is more accurate:

1.) Get users addicted to our software
2.) Profit!!!

Oh Britney...

[bol]

Meanwhile, the RIAA doesn't feel the same logic applies to record sales in the U.S., and has started an ad campaign to convince the public that sharing music hurts artists.

Don't worry Britney, if you take it in the butt, technically you're still a virgin.

Damn! (OT)

[BurritoWarrior]

Britney sure looks fine on that page!

Kinda makes me wish I really was a pirate. I sure would like to pillage that pumpkin!

This is news for nerds, right?

I thought someone might say that.

[Dthoma]

However, all of the moderations except some of the "Troll"s appear to have expired for some reason. Look at this comment to see some of the mods it got. It doesn't take into account the fact that it got 3 or 4 more "Troll"s and another one or two "Funny"s after it got posted. ;-)

Yes, I know this is offtopic, but gimme some slack.