Few things in this world are geekier than discussions (or more frequently, arguments) about preferred Internet operating systems. Which is why I can’t help but be amused by recent statements by Microsoft’s partner group manager Simon Aldous that seem to indicate that Windows 7, Microsoft’s swanky new operating system, was directly inspired by Macintosh’s interface.
From PCR:
One of the things that people say an awful lot about the Apple Mac is that the OS is fantastic, that it’s very graphical and easy to use. What we’ve tried to do with Windows 7 — whether it’s traditional format or in a touch format — is create a Mac look and feel in terms of graphics.
Of course, Microsoft issued a blog shortly after, claiming that Aldous’ big bold “admission” was just completely false:
An inaccurate quote has been floating around the Internet today about the design origins of Windows 7 and whether its look and feel was “borrowed” from Mac OS X. Unfortunately this came from a Microsoft employee who was not involved in any aspect of designing Windows 7.”
Mac fans probably just snorted in derision. Firefox people just shrugged and moved on.
I won’t add fuel to the fire among dedicated users, all of whom have undoubtedly spent plenty of cash on their machine (and hence operating system) of choice, but I will say that technology companies probably shouldn’t be so ashamed of influence. Features that work well on one platform should be borrowed and tinkered with — isn’t that how we all make better products in a competitive economy?
In any event, I would definitely like to see a new “I’m a Mac/I’m a PC” commercial based on this hilarious little incident.
On an entirely unrelated — though potentially even geekier — note, Star Wars fans can now be a part of their favorite fictional universe in a way that no one had ever dreamed of (except in April Fool’s jokes). If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the iconic scene where Luke Skywalker is saved from hypothermia by sleeping in the deceased remains of a snow creature (a tauntaun, for the uninitiated), well, you’re in luck.
You can now purchase a tauntaun sleeping bag, complete with “Embroidered Tauntaun head pillow, lightsaber zipper pull and printed “guts” lining”. You’ll be the hit of the slumber party with this puppy, no doubt.
