Mozilla Recommends Firefox 2.0 - Microsoft Recommends Firefox 2.0 Too... Over IE7

Forget about Internet Explorer 7! Why even bother to use IE7 in Windows XP and Windows Vista, when there's always Firefox 2.0 available? The fact of the matter is that Microsoft itself is pushing the open source browser in the detriment of Internet Explorer. I guess that the Redmond company saw the error of its monopolist ways and fully aware that the Windows - Internet Explorer combination, and Vista - IE7 bundle, is giving it an unfair advantage, changed its tune and is now promoting rival products. In this case Firefox 2.0. Now, Mozilla recommending Firefox, I guess I could swallow that, but now Microsoft too?

Most recently Microsoft published a list with a collection of laptops from various producers, including Asus Lamborghini VX2, Dell XPS M1330, Dell Inspiron 1720, HP tx1000, Sony Vaio CR, Sony VGC-LS37E, Toshiba R500 Protégé. And in all images of the computers, Microsoft made sure to stick via Photoshop the same screenshot advertising Firefox 2.0. "Be Memorable, Be Inspired, Be Connected, Be Dynamic, Be Daring" are the slogans with which Microsoft is trying to convince users to buy the laptops preloaded with Windows Vista. "Be You" is the top catch phrase, and a substitute for the Wow.

And just take a look at the image on the top left. It is an Asus Lamborghini VX2 machine. "The Asus Lamborghini VX2 is available in signature colors such as vibrant yellow and polished black, which are designed to exude the speed, style and strength of the laptop's name sake. This same experience carries over to how users create and enjoy digital content. Whether editing high definition (HD) videos in Windows Movie Maker or viewing the final cut on its 15.4 inch screen, the VX2 is the perfect vehicle for multimedia computing," reads Microsoft's description of the product in the "Be You: Windows Vista Computers Epitomize Form, Function, Self-Expression" press material. (High definition image available via this link)

Long Zheng believes that Microsoft's suggestions for Christmas 2007 gifts from July is a sign of desperation... But you should see the company's recommendations for the holiday season of 2010, after the availability of Windows Seven... Now that's simply thinking ahead... And yet, there is only a vague trace of Internet Explorer 7 on the taskbar in the Vista pre-loaded laptops. Instead Firefox 2.0 is dominating the desktop, along with FileZilla, QuickTime, DivX, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Dreamweaver. But you know what... Microsoft remains loyal to one Windows component: Calculator. I for one think that the Redmond company deserves a pat on the back...