Microsoft Attacks Google on Copyright

The Microsoft Corporation, the software giant, has prepared a blistering attack on rival Google, arguing that the Web search leader takes a cavalier approach to copyright protection.

In remarks prepared for delivery on Tuesday to the Association of American Publishers, the associate general counsel of Microsoft, Thomas Rubin, argues that Google’s move into new media markets has come at the expense of publishers of books, videos and software.

Don’t forget music, you jackasses.

Used to be that Microsoft would try to beat their opponents, no matter how popular, by getting users to switch. (Examples: WordPerfect, Netscape.) Now they’re just trying to sidle up to the entertainment industry — an industry that holds its own customers in contempt.

★ Tuesday, 6 March 2007