January 31, 2005

Microsoft Windows XP Reduced Media Edition

Microsoft is quite funny with its amazing gall and sense of humor. The European Commision has ruled that Microsoft must sell a version of Windows without their Media Player due to anti-trust reasons. Microsoft's first dab at the name was "Windows XP Reduced Media Edition." For obvious reasons the government decided this wasn't a viable name for the product.

The name "Windows XP Reduced Media Edition," which the EC said would prejudice consumers against the software, was only provisional, pending the Commission's approval, Microsoft said on Monday. "Microsoft is absolutely committed to complying fully with the Commission's decision," said a Microsoft spokesman. "Microsoft is currently discussing alternative names."

Fortunately for the Evil Empire, only they have enough money to thumb its nose at the next most powerful government regulator in the world. With billions in cash, most fines would be a slap on the wrist with a wet noodle to Mr. Gates.