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Microsoft Was Distributing Ubuntu Linux

Posted by Zonk on from the but-not-so-much-anymore dept.

ausage writes "Groklaw has noted that for the last few days, Microsoft has been distributing Unbuntu Desktop Linux from the Windows Marketplace Website. The page is gone now, but can still — as of this morning — be seen using Google cache. 'Heaven only knows that's true, simply perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. The part Microsoft got wrong is it says the license is "Free" and "No limitations". Actually, the GPL does set some limitations, like what you are responsible to do if you redistribute.'"

8 of 281 comments (clear)

  1. BWHAHAH by jrwr00 · · Score: 5, Funny

    Arg! our Linux spy have bee found! he was going to make a windows update to reinstall windows as Ubuntu, Oh well i guess this works

    --
    WulframII - Free Online Mutiplayer 3D Tank Shooting Game
  2. First Post! or maybe not by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    I think my first post is missing because:

    1) It was on a blackberry confiscated by the communist French govt.
    2) I was ready to post, but the lake I was fishing on suddenly disappeared
    3) I was 4th born in my family and I'm too stupid to post
    4) ???
    5) Profit!

  3. MS distributing a Linux distro? by jshriverWVU · · Score: 5, Funny

    ... thought it was a bit cold outside, did hell REALLY freeze over?

  4. "Unbuntu"? by sczimme · · Score: 5, Funny

    From the summary:

    "Groklaw has noted that for the last few days, Microsoft has been distributing Unbuntu Desktop Linux from the Windows Marketplace Website.

    However, according to the cached page Microsoft spelled 'Ubuntu' correctly.

    --
    I want to drag this out as long as possible. Bring me my protractor.
  5. Rebuntu link? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    I downloaded and installed Unbuntu from the Microsoft page. Does anyone know where I can find a link to Rebuntu?

    1. Re:Rebuntu link? by Valdrax · · Score: 5, Funny

      I thought one of Linux's advantages was that you didn't really need to Rebuntu so often.
      Also -- obligatory xkcd.

      --
      If it's for-profit but free, you're not the customer -- you're the product (e.g., the Slashdot Beta's "audience").
  6. Re:Interesting to see what comes out of this by Rude+Turnip · · Score: 5, Funny

    There's probably a shitload of free chairs in their parking lot today, too.

    --
    Bill Clinton: Pimp we can believe in. - The Shirt!!!
  7. Re:confusing by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Microsoft can claim what they want, they entered into voucher distribution willfully and with full knowledge that GPL2 covered indirect distribution. They weren't distributing via their marketplace, it's a simple link to a product available elsewhere.

    There's a world of difference between telling someone where to download something and selling them a voucher directly redeemable against a product and commercial support package. If I tell you there's a guy down the road selling crack then I'm not supplying it. If I sell you a voucher redeemable for crack from the dealer down the block, I am indirectly supplying it.

    Disclaimer: IANACD (I Am Not A Crack Dealer).