Why Software Piracy is Good for Microsoft

Posted by ryuzaki0 on Thursday September 26, 2002 @05:22AM from the shared-source dept.

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.

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so confused by kingOFgEEEks · 2002-09-26 05:26 · Score: 0, Redundant

so, microsoft likes piracy (as long as it isn't in the US), but RIAA doesn't? ok, #2 isn't news, but i really am confused as to why bill gates would enjoy the idea. i thought M$ was all about money.... ok, that's it, i'm moving to China

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mechanicos ergo cogito
Things we know Part 1 by IWantMoreSpamPlease · 2002-09-26 05:27 · Score: 0, Redundant

Duh...this has been known for eons now. This is hardly news.

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So rise up, all ye lost ones, as one, we'll claw the clouds.