Subj : MS's Hardware Involvement
To   : Nightfox
From : Mortar M.
Date : Wed Apr 02 2025 14:54:29

  Re: Linux gaming on low end PC's?
  By: Nightfox to Vorlon on Tue Apr 01 2025 17:17:57

 > ...Microsoft would only be getting paid for a Windows License...

MS has always been in bed with various hardware companies.  Back in the '90s it was all about the licensing, as you mention.  PC makers had to pony-up for the "privilege" to have Windows pre-installed, or face bankrupsy as Windows was, virtually, the only game in town.  A few tried to buck the system by offereing Linux systems, but by then, all the public knew about was "Windows", so they ended up caving.

Today, withe the inclusion of Co-Pilot, MS is pressuring PC makers to include special AI-enhanced chipsets into their machines, believing that consumers will fall in love with AI.  Personally, I have my doubts, based on what I've seen and read.

 > I've heard sales of Windows isn't Microsoft's biggest income generator...
 > I've heard Microsoft makes a lot more money from data services, hosted
 > applications (Office 360, etc.), and other business-related things.

Quite right, and has been that way for years.  In an intervew with Steve Ballmer (the previous CEO), he admitted that vary fact, which didn't sit well with home consumers.
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