PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
According to seattlepi.com, a class action lawsuit against Microsoft has been filed for the company’s Windows Vista Capable logo on new computers. The suit claims that it was deceptive to include the logo on machines not capable of running all of Windows Vista’s new features.
PCs require a minimum of 512MB of RAM, an 800MHz or faster processor and a DirectX 9-capable graphics card to run Vista. However a machine of those specifications is not guaranteed to be able to run all the new features of the operating system. One of the most publicised aspects is Aero, which requires a relatively powerful graphics card.
“In sum, Microsoft engaged in bait and switch – assuring consumers they were purchasing ‘Vista Capable’ machines when, in fact, they could obtain only a stripped-down operating system lacking the functionality and features that Microsoft advertised as ‘Vista,’” said the complaint.
The suit also attacks Bill Gates for his part in allegedly misleading consumers by saying users would be able to upgrade to Windows Vista for less than $100.
“In fact, one can only ‘upgrade’ to Home Basic for that price, which Mr Gates and Microsoft know is a product that lacks the features marketed by Microsoft as being Vista,” the complaint continued.
“Anybody who purchased a PC that had the Windows Vista Capable logo got the core experience of Windows Vista,” said Linda Norman, a Microsoft associate general counsel as she defended the software giant. “We have different versions, and they do offer different features. The Windows (Vista) core experience is a huge advance over Windows XP, we believe, and provides some great features, particularly in the area of security and reliability, and just general ease of use.”
