I'm a consumer, and I haven't been harmed.

The simplest response is, how do you know? Microsoft utilizes business tactics such as the spreading of false rumors, preannouncement of non-existent software, feature mimic, operating system integration, and exclusivity contracts to eliminate potential competitors, all enabled by Microsoft's Windows dominance. If the Findings of Fact are to be believed, Microsoft will offer to buy a competitor, split the market with them, or drive them out of business. All of these tactics are in the best interests of Microsoft and are enabled by Microsoft's dominant operating system position, and few are ever in the best interests of consumers. Rarely is Microsoft the first to bring an innovation to market. Yet, Microsoft's use of the aforementioned tactics enables them to eliminate the innovator from the market. As a result, few are encouraged to innovate in the face of these tactics.

Consequently, how many technologies could have blossomed into immense consumer benefit had the attempt not been an effort in futility fostered by Microsoft? It is impossible to say how many we have lost, but we can control the direction of the future. If Microsoft is not held accountable for their business practices, they will continue, and we will be agreeing to sacrifice any possible innovation that competes with them in the belief that Microsoft knows best.











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