A Microsoft stated on Thursday (21) that it will make available core technological elements of some of its best-selling software to increase the interoperability of its programs with rival products and customers.

To facilitate this connection, the company will publish important information (API) on its website about the functioning of the Windows Vista operating system and Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008, Office 2007, Exchange Server 2007 and Office SharePoint Server 2007, as well as all future versions of these products.

Microsoft has also undertaken not to process free software programmers for the development or non-commercial distribution of products using the information it is releasing.

The Free Software Community, on the other hand, shows little belief in the approach announcement, seen as Microsoft's marketing strategy.

It's easy to say! If there was a saying to summarize the stance of representatives of the free software community! after Microsoft give signs of approach on Thursday (21/02), it would be, easily, this.

"We need to see the quality of documentation and what forms of licensing will be. Interoperability must be absolutely free for use and development without payment. Any obstacle along the way can be a barrier to innovation."

Source: WorldWEB