Banning Operating Systems

Hmmm …

That’s something … 

You’ve possibly noticed that — outside of the Daily Teasers, and other associated bits and bobs — I’ve not written much, here.

Job-hunting’s getting more frantic, if you follow me.

At ANY rate, I do try and post up about all sorts of things: as and when they catch my eyes.

One news item did, today.

The one on the BBC’s news site — here — that tells us China has banned Windows.

Let me try an be accurate, there.

The Chinese government has banned government departments and offices from using desktops, laptops and tablets running Windows 8, the current and newest version of Microsoft’s operating system.

Mostly, it seems many Chinese government computer are running various versions of Windows XP: which Microsoft have ended security support for.

China are, appreciably, loath to replace XP with an operating system that leaves them reliant on foreign companies for security updates and fixes.

~≈Ê≈~

BBC News - Valve boss Gabe Newell calls Windows 8 a 'catastrophe'

BBC News - Valve boss Gabe Newell calls Windows 8 a 'catastrophe'

Hmmm …

Now, I’ve got to admit, I, I saw the linked piece, this morning, when I opened my proverbial mail.

Seemingly, Gabe Newell of Valve Software has publicly stated he thinks that the upcoming Windows 8 operating system will be a “catastrophe”.

You can probably imagine what I make of that, can’t you … ?

But at any rate, from reading the article, it seems Mr Newell seems to be griping about Microsoft’s plans for a Windows 8 App Store.

I know it sounds daft, I’ve been using a Mac, now for some years, and know both how awkward it is finding software for it: and how handy the Mac App Store is.

I’m also very aware that, although Apple have tightened security for Mountain Lion, I’m also aware one has a certain amount of choice over exactly what software gets onto your system.

You can pic and choose, and DON’T — on the Mac — have to go through the Store.

But there‘s one thing I HAVE noticed in that article.

That Microsoft is — in addition to adopting an App Store model for Windows 8 — is ALSO copying Apple’s price structure.

In other words, if you’re a developer wanting to sell your wares through Microsoft’s shopfront: you’ll get charged 30% of the gross.

I think that’s what’s getting the complaint …