Microsoft employs old strategy to hurt iPod

David Haskin of Mobile Pipeline likens Microsoft's strategy for digital music players to its operating system strategy of the 1980s and '90s. "As happened in the 80s and 90s, Microsoft is again attempting to put the hurt on Apple by making system software available to any vendor -- as long as they compete with Apple and its closed approach to system software. It's ancient history now, but Windows, as deployed by the Dells and Compaqs of the world, obliterated the Macintosh. Now, MP3 players from the likes of Creative Labs, iRiver and Archos -- and eventually smartphone vendors -- have a legitimate shot of obliterating iPod and iTunes." Haskin also says "the only way that Apple can come out of this with its iPod line intact in the next few years is to capitulate to Microsoft." Last week, Steve Jobs acknowledged that, while he still doesn't like the PlaysForSure approach, Apple could adapt to the changing competition.

Filed under: iPod, industry