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0 pointsdrumdance10y ago0 comments

Microsoft was in a class by themselves in terms of how their ruthlessness played out. Harsh negotiation demands plus technical bullshit like this: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AARD_code

I haven't heard stories like this about Facebook, but perhaps they're better at covering their tracks.

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rms_returns10y ago

They did their best to kill Linux:

- Negotiation and "arrangements" with OEMs that they will only pre-install Windows on all devices.

- Allowing "selective piracy" to happen so the masses are addicted only to Windows, while they still earn from corporate clients.

- Making Word/Excel formats not compatible with ODF (Open Document Format), thus making it difficult for OpenOffice/LibreOffice to function.

If I think about it, it seems like a wonder that I even have Linux running on my laptop today!

samstave10y ago

Walmart was in the same class

DavidChouinard10y ago

All successful companies are part of the class, visible or not.

tylermauthe10y ago

I'm sure you're right, but I'm curious -- in what ways?

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