Wed, May. 21, 2003

Microsoft v. Linux do Battle in Munich

JN - Washington.   The Munich city council, already on its way to fame as the first municipality in Germany to exclusively use Linux, has been offered a 15% discount by Microsoft on its products. The reigning Social Democrats now favor Windows.

The sudden change of mind followed a personal visit by Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer to the Bavarian capital who convinced the council to use Microsoft's products. The discount and the fact that Microsoft's German subsidiary is a big employer in the Munich area apparently wiped out doubts about frequently reported Windows security leaks.

Ballmer's effort illustrates the global "Trustworthy Computing" campaign, as Microsoft strives to polish its public image and prevent Linux from gaining market share.

A municipal ruling is expected some time after May 28 when a deadline for a revised Linux quote expires.

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