Blames media accounts on Munich representative

Microsoft is not banning Apple products from its press events, a company spokesperson says. At a recent Windows Mobile 6.5 event in Munich, Germany, one Microsoft representative is alleged to have criticized journalists for talking about owning an iPhone. The one incident led to reports that Microsoft had banned the use or mention of Apple products at official events.

"While we've been unable to confirm the specific exchange," the spokesperson now says, "it would not reflect our overall company policy and business practices. Reporters and analysts are free to use whatever technology they wish in covering any Microsoft event, and always have been."

Claims to the contrary may be based on poor translations of the Munich comments, and a history of Microsoft pressuring its workers to avoid Apple gear. Windows Mobile team members are discouraged from owning iPhones, and at one point the company organized an "iPod amnesty bin" for employees not using Zunes. CEO Steve Ballmer famously pretended to stomp on one person's iPhone during a meeting.

The company nevertheless officially allows its workforce to display Apple hardware, and audiences at events are often seen using Macs.

by MacNN Staff