Linux is not Microsoft's target

I think we're maybe being a bit too hasty in our assumptions that Microsoft is attempting to kill Linux through this unspecified patents thing. If I wanted to be a bit impolite, I'd say that we're too wrapped up in our illusionary self-importance.

"The pawn is the most important piece of the chess board - to a pawn."

The truth is, Microsoft is just using unspecified Linux patent threats in order to get access to valuable patents held by other companies. You hadn't noticed that Fuji Xerox, Samsung and LG have signed agreements with Microsoft that allow it access to these companies' patents?

http://www.informationweek.com/news/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=199101753

"The two companies on Wednesday said the deal would cover patents related to Samsung's existing and future product lines, such as computer products, set-top boxes, digital media players, camcorders, televisions, printers, and home appliances. Microsoft, on the other hand, would get access to Samsung intellectual property related to digital media and computers."

So, Samsung gets nothing that it hasn't already had; and Microsoft gets unrestricted access to Samsung's technology. Remember, Samsung do more than make LCD screens - they also make flash memory, hybrid hard disks, and all sorts of other things!

More worrying is Fuji Xerox. There's an awful lot of patents and IP that Fuji Xerox holds that could be built into Windows, in an attempt to kill the Macintosh for graphics and typesetting work. Such an attempt would succeed, as Apple hasn't been paying attention to this section of the market.

If TiVo goes into negotiations with Microsoft, then you know that what I'm saying is true. Microsoft, obviously, wants to tie up the Media Centre market, and TiVo is the logical choice for doing that (and the first step). Not to mention Samsung and LG, who are also makers of DVRs.

So, keep hacking away as usual, but pay attention to what Microsoft is doing. We're sorta the indirect target, but our livelihood could be threatened by Microsoft's actions. I guess I'm trying to say "Be alert, be alarmed, but the sky isn't falling yet".