Microsoft is opening up the Windows Media 9 video codec to a standards body [ArsTechnica].

In the heavily standards-driven broadcast industry, proprietary technologies have historically made little headway. Thus, opening up Windows Media Series 9 makes sense for Microsoft. Apple and Real Networks have both embraced MPEG-4 -- also an open standard -- over the past year with QuickTime and RealSystem respectively. If this previously-closed standard is endorsed by the SMPTE, Microsoft could see a steady stream of revenue from royalties if widely adopted in addition to higher market share. It is definitely a new direction for Microsoft.

I never trust such moves by Microsoft. What are they really trying to do? Do they think that MPEG-4 is going to be impossible to beat unless they make this move? It's true that MPEG-4 has probably got the largest share of the market but that usually wouldn't scare Microsoft. 10:59:00 AM    comment []  

Microsoft is making another go at getting a foothold in the cellphone market. This time they are partnering with Motorola [ArsTechnica].

Now the software giant is determined to play catch-up on its own terms — by leveraging its 90%-plus share of desktop PC software. The MPx200 is designed to let busy professionals quickly extract phone numbers, appointments and e-mail from a Windows PC by placing the handset in a cradle connected to the PC.

It seems to me that they are bound to make it into the market, despite the industry's distrust and efforts to keep them out. Microsoft has a lot to offer business people in terms of integration with the desktop. It only makes sense. Not that I am eager to see them attempt to dominate this market, but it does make sense to have their product available in the cellphone market. 10:46:38 AM    comment []