Former Microsoft Exec Furious at Vista

Internal Microsoft emails are detailing a former co-president’s anger over Vista changes. The emails between then co-president Jim Allchin and CEO Steve Ballmer were made public as part of a class action lawsuit against Microsoft. Allchin calls the change in Vista labeling requirements “a mess” and he added that it was wrong for consumers.

Back in Jan 30th 2006, Microsoft lowered the hardware specifications required to garner a Vista “Capable” logo. Specifically, the company dropped graphic requirements to appease Intel because the Intel 915 integrated chipset couldn’t adequately run the flashy Aero interface in Vista. While the change made Intel happy, HP was furious over the decision because it had revamped its computer lineup with beefier video cards. HP figured that consumers would flock to its machines because of the Vista capable logo, but the requirement change now meant that almost every desktop was “Capable”.

In March 2007, Dianne Kelley and Kenneth Hansen sued Microsoft in federal court for intentionally misleading consumers. Namely, they alleged that Microsoft deceived customers by slapping Vista Capable stickers onto machines that could only run Vista Basic. Class action status was granted earlier this year.

Allchin and other Microsoft execs were locked in vicious email exchanges the day the company dropped the graphics requirement. Allchin wrote, “I am beyond being upset here,” and added, “We must avoid confusion. It is wrong for consumers.” Ballmer claimed he was out of the loop and blamed another executive for making the decision.

Allchin, who had been a 16-year Microsoft employee, stopped working for Microsoft the same day Vista launched.

Source - Seattle Times