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General discussion

(NT) Will everybody get Internet Explorer 7 for an update?

Jul 27, 2005 10:23AM PDT

Discussion is locked

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Only those with Windows XP SP2...
Jul 27, 2005 3:18PM PDT

When the final version comes out (currently in Beta 1 testing), Internet Explorer 7.0 will be available only to those running Windows XP SP2, as well as Longhorn (when it comes out in late 2006). Anyone running Windows 95, 98, ME, or 2000 will not be eligible to receive the update, and be forced to continue using the older versions or an alternative browser (eg Firefox). It is expected that Microsoft's ploy to get more people to upgrade to Windows XP will cause them to lose further browser dominance...an event which led them to update the browser in the first place.

Hope this helps,
John

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RE: ''and be forced''
Jul 28, 2005 11:26AM PDT

Should the manufacturer continue to support every OS it ever designed. If not for the ''ploy'' manufacturers would still be building parts for the Edsel and Univac 1.

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Understood, but...
Jul 28, 2005 12:59PM PDT

I understand that XP itself is going on 4 years old, and that mainstream support has already been retired for older versions. I also understand that it would take time and effort to port the newer technology to an older platform, especially when they would make nothing for it. The other day I was going through some old junk and found a copy of Windows 3.0 from 1990 I didn't even know I had, and I definately don't expect support for it.

However, Microsoft has recently stated that they are serious about protecting its users. They have released Antispyware for free (to legitimate XP users) and are offering security updates to everyone...including those who own pirated copies, just to help secure the internet. In addition, extended support for Windows ME and 2000 will be available through 2006 and 2010, respectfully. Given this, I'd think that they would also want to put forth the effort to secure users of previous versions of Windows.

In addition, almost half of all business users still run Windows 2000, according to a survey by AssetMetrix. Since mainstream support for Windows 2000 just ended last month (June 30th), and so many business still rely on the software, it really does seem like holding back IE7 is a ploy to get those users to upgrade.

Personally, It wouldn't affect me if/when support is completely cut off for all older versions, as the new versions of Microsoft software are automatically shipped to me at no charge. However, I'd like to see Microsoft show some real initiative and port IE7 to at least Windows 2000. It wouldn't be that difficult, as it has the same base as XP, and would be greatly appreciated by the thousands of security-conscious business still running it.

When it comes down to it, Microsoft's business practices (as well as many other large congolmerates) will be their downfall. The forgotten/ignored promises, delayed updates, insecure software, and frequent and costly upgrade fees have led users to try some of the alternatives, including Linux and Firefox. As Firefox community coordinator Asa Dotzler mentioned in this ZDNET article, their success is mostly due to Microsoft's way of thinking, and the Mozilla Foundation can't thank Microsoft enough for the latest announcement.

It's the cycle of life...the weak become strong, the strong become dominating, the dominating become blinded, and the blinded become susceptible to the weak.

John

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(NT) (NT) Interesting perspective! :)
Jul 28, 2005 10:50PM PDT
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As glenn30 mentioned...
Jul 29, 2005 4:00AM PDT

''Interesting perspective!''

But as you somewhat mentioned folks, even ''complomorates'' have to make money for their efforts. The bottom line to every commercial product or service is money. No money no food, no rent, no gov. services, etc.

If industry broadly caters to the past, industry and technology will be much less likely to reach and prepare for the future. It was this path that caused Chrysler in the 70's to fall behind even some foriegn competition for just one example.

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Sadly, yes....
Jul 29, 2005 4:54AM PDT

Unfortunately greed is a necessary evil, a catalyst that enables society to continue to progress forwards instead of finding itself at a standstill. Despite my complaints about company policies, I realize that it must be this way, for this is a case where the greatness of the outcome outweighs the methods, no matter how disliked. On the other hand, it is human nature to take the best deal available, forcing companies, such as Microsoft, to walk a fine line between satisfying themselves and satisfying others, which at a certain point, becomes the same. Hopefully they don't forget where that line is.

John

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(NT) (NT) Not necessarily greed but yes, necessary.
Jul 29, 2005 3:01PM PDT