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07/26/2005: "It seems that Microsoft has let the other shoe drop"

Now they want access to your computer:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2002402071_microsoft26.html

http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/75511/microsoft-takes-advantage.html

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050726.wxmicrosoft0726/BNStory/International/

http://informationweek.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=166402314

Apparently, you can get a free license if you turn in someone else who has given you a hot copy, or, if it was you doing the slap and wiggle with license keys, Microsoft will allow you to go legit for $99 to $149. This while MacOS 10.4.2 is $129 (retail), and Novel's "Linux Desktop 9 (Powered by SUSE)" is a mere $50, quantity one.

Can it come as any suprise that Microsoft rips $10 Billion per year out of the wallets of the customers who have already paid them?