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Dell/Novell Approach Ignites Skpeticism and Backlash

This outcome was probably inevitable, if not outright predictable as well. We would like to present a couple of stories which represent a common sentiment. Some people are unhappy with Dell's implicit endorsement of the Novell/Microsoft deal, wherein it is acknowledged that Linux embodies Microsoft IP.

The first article comes from Computer Business Review Online. These chaps have consistently bothered to ask customers about IP concerns. This one piece is no exception. More interesting, however, is a side story from the article:

Shortly after yesterday's announcement from Dell, a posting appeared on its IdeaStorm suggestion box web site, entitled "Don't imply Microsoft IP in Linux".

"I would like Dell to make an official statement that they do not believe there is any Microsoft intellectual property in any of the distributions of Linux they offer," the poster, mhall119, wrote.

It was receiving about 100 votes per hour during the day yesterday. Dell's Lord said he had not read the suggestion and declined to comment on it.


The second little tidbit come from a column which is aptly titled "The empire strikes back".

Notice that Dell wasn't exactly prominent in the announcement of the deal - most of the talking was done by Microsoft, in itself a reminder that whether you are a big player or not in the tech industry, you had better do as the boys in Redmond say. No getting too much out of line.

Just a couple of months back, Dell was involved in what many saw as some kind of lovefest with the Linux community, claiming it was trying to gauge what the public really wants. It's one of those touchy-feely marketing BS exercises.

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