08.20.08
Miguel de Icaza on ‘Superb’ Microsoft Lock-ins
he man who called Microsoft’s OOXML a “superb standard” under Novell’s wing (Novell is being paid by Microsoft to support OOXML) had a different point of view some years ago. Here he is talking about formats as a lock-in mechanism. What has changed since 2004? Is it the many long journeys Miguel takes to the Microsoft campus?
This multiple-part interview also contains bits where Miguel speaks about his background as a Windows programmer.
Here is a roundup of the latest OOXML situation. Nothing is over yet.
The rejection of the HypocrISO appeals offers opportunities for another wave of appeals.
[…]
So let me give some points: What can be won through another ISO delay?
* more OOXML uncertainty
* ISO to expose itself even more and get ready for procedural reform
* keep the debate in the news
Highlight: Novell was the first to acknowledge that Microsoft FUD tactics had substance. Novell then used anti-Linux FUD to market itself. 
Highlight: Xandros let Microsoft make patent claims and brag about (paid-for) OOXML support. 
Highlight: Linspire's CEO not only fell into Microsoft arms, but he also assisted the company's attack on GNU/Linux. 
Highlight: Microsoft craves pseudo (proprietary) standards and gets its way using proxies and influence which it buys. 
Highlight: The invasion into the open source world is intended to leave Linux companies neglected, due to financial incentives from Microsoft. 
Analysis: Xen, an open source hypervisor, possibly fell victim to Microsoft's aggressive (and stealthy) acquisition-by-proxy strategy.