So, there is an interesting read over at ExtremeTech that attempts to show what the computing world would be like without Microsoft. It is a fun read… especially considering the author brings back to life my beloved Commodore computer (although, they are bought by HP… oh well).

There is no doubt that having a standard operating system has been beneficial for many reasons. But, it appears as though the author believes it is the only reason there has been any innovation in computers over the last twenty or so years. For example, apparently increased competition would have actually stifled innovation and companies like Apple would still be releasing operating systems that are unable to handle multi-tasking correctly. Also, the development of the graphical internet itself would not have occured (cause we all know Microsoft was on the ball when it came to realizing the world wide web’s potential early on).

I do agree with the author that the computing landscape would be vastly different without Microsoft, but this contention that Microsoft was the main catalyst behind every innovation in the computing industry over the last twenty years seems a bit far fetched. I think some people would contend that innovation over the last twenty years has occured in spite of Microsoft’s existence.

Still… it is a fun read.