celgins - 3:07 am on Dec 19, 2007 (gmt 0)

Microsofts business plan is to extinguish competition. I think that Googles plan actually involves some sort of vision.

Yes... Google's plan appears to be to host and store every piece of information conceivable. A cloud concept run by Google is really just another attempt to store more and more information.

However the large chunk of Microsofts cash comes from businesses and government use. Also Microsoft has positioned themselves towards cloud computing with their Live-services, so it's not like they are totally lagging. It just looks like they really do not understand what is going on and are releasing another 'me too' product (nothing shocking there).

I agree that Live Services is just another "me too" product. I believe Live Services is an example of a cloud-scheme that Microsoft wants to grow, but knows it can't compete in the online, open-source market with.

But Microsoft controls a multi-million $$$ sector of home-based computing and until major PC manufacturers start shipping their desktops (and laptops) with a Linux OS solution -- Microsoft will still hold that share. Plus -- Microsoft's dominance in the government sector is a lot stronger than in the civilian sector.

What Microsoft should fear is loss of their total domination...

They are scared to death of losing the Windows cash-cow...

Any company would fear this -- even Google. What would Google do if Yahoo, Microsoft or some other entity started dipping into its online advertising influence?

Google currently owns this arena, but it will certainly be a long day in Mountain View when they realize the gravy train is starting to slow down.