Microsoft has confirmed it developed materials that portray Linux as unsuitable for consumer use, and distributed these to retail sales staff around the United States.
Among its claims the sales materials asserts that Windows scores a “many” for compatibility with cameras, iPod and MP3 players, as well as for printers and scanners. Linux is rated as “few.”
The brochure scores Windows as having “extensive” software compatibility and Linux as being “limited.”
The materials give a big tick to Windows as having “authorised support,” “video chat on all major IM networks,” and being able to play “the games your customers want (e.g. World of Warcraft).”
By contrast, a red stop sign adorns the Linux columns for each.
Under the category “Window Live Essentials (e.g. Messenger, Mail, Photo Gallery)” the Windows column notes the product is a free download but is not supported under Linux.
Additional materials claim that Windows is “familiar and easy to use” and is “what most customers want.” As you might guess, Linux gets the stop sign for these categories.
We all know what marketing is...Linux will be and has been a growing weight on Microsoft's back. Linux also makes it possible to recycle old PCs cheaply for individuals that can't afford new.
Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt (FUD) is a tactic of rhetoric and fallacy used in sales, marketing, public relations, politics and propaganda. FUD is generally a strategic attempt to influence public perception by disseminating negative information designed to undermine the credibility of their beliefs. An individual firm, for example, might use FUD to invite unfavorable opinions and speculation about a competitor's product; to increase the general estimation of switching costs among current customers; or to maintain leverage over a current business partner who could potentially become a rival. FUD techniques may be crude and simple. Alternatively they may be very subtle, employing an indirect approach.