James Delahunty
2 Feb 2005 15:39
Microsoft and Apple may be head to head in many different areas including operating systems and their online music services. However, it appears that an estimated 80% of Microsoft employees who own a portable music player, own an iPod. The sight of people walking past with the Apple white headphones on is increasing, especially on Microsoft's leafy corporate campus in Redmond, Washington. "About 80 percent of Microsoft employees who have a portable music player have an iPod," said an anonymous high-level manager. "It's pretty staggering."
So popular is the iPod, executives are increasingly sending out memos frowning on its use. And why does this all seem so strange? Well, because several companies that produce portable music players use Microsoft software including Creative Technology, Rio and Sony and it's WMA audio format is used by several major online music download stores including Napster, Musicmatch and Wal-Mart. Apple's iPod has 65% of the portable player market, and its online iTunes Music Store has 70% of online music sales.
"These guys are really quite scared," said the source of Microsoft's management. "It shows how their backs are against the wall.... Even though it's Microsoft, no one is interested in what we have to offer, even our own employees." Aw poor Microsoft. You spend so long on top of the market I bet it feel's horrible to be beaten in even just one area? Better luck next time eh?
Source:
Wired