Re: They say history repeats itself.
If Microsoft is smart, it should consider making Windows open source.
New machines from OEMs already have a licensed copy of Windows preinstalled. Enterprises are already required by law to use only licensed copies of business software, including Windows. There should be no concern about a loss of revenue.
By allowing the core components of Windows to be open source, it'll help to create unofficial 'bare bones' forked editions of Windows which is fully legacy-compatible, with a sprinkling of unique aesthetics and a selection of features envisioned by the developers. Maybe include the sentimental stuff e.g. wallpapers, tada sound and classic Minesweeper.
You get 'distros' of Windows. The enthusiasts use them for the legacy/DOS stuff, without being forced to seek out a copy and install some edition of Windows that's 10-20+ years old.
The cutting edge features, and official support and updates, are only for the licensed copies of Windows.
This also helps Microsoft to chart its own path ahead with Windows 10, without being overly distracted by legacy and backward compatibility.
Still, I think Microsoft should emulate Apple's OSX release cycle and pricing. Do a final Win 10 grand update (Service Pack style), say, in 2019. So, Win 10 RTM + SP 2019 = Win 10.1. Only bug fixes and 'maintenance mode' updates thereafter. Then a few years later, release Win 10.2; those upgrading from 10.1 have to pay a smaller amount of money. A few years later, Win 10.3. And so on.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
