Sun's software chief blasted Microsoft and its decision to pull the plug on all products that use the Microsoft Java Virtual Machine on December 23.
In an open letter distributed on Thursday, Jonathan Schwartz, Executive Vice President of Sun's Software Group, accused Microsoft of being disingenuous with customers about why it retired Windows 98, Office 2000 Developer and many other products as a result of a court case in which Sun prevailed.
"It's a lesson in how a company with legendary market dominance can lose sight of customer priorities, and force an unnecessary transition onto a customer base already paralyzed with viruses and security breaches," Schwartz wrote. "Publicly, Microsoft says Sun forced its hand. Yet, they overlooked that this issue was part of a settlement it agreed to and Sun extended until September of next year.
He claims Microsoft is trying to force upgrades. In the same letter, however, Sun took the opportunity to pitch its own Java Desktop System Linux desktop to Microsoft customers using those products who may decide to migrate to newer Microsoft software - or alternatives.
"So apparently without consulting customers, partners or ISV's, Microsoft has unilaterally elected to pull their products from the market, then blamed it on Sun," Schwartz added. "Sun has offered, and will continue to offer, a license to Java technology that would spare Microsoft any transition whatsoever so long as Microsoft maintains compatibility [with Sun's Java."
Discover the benefits of scalable backbone and network services for application and cloud providers.
Network automation is gaining momentum. Here's how you can drive this powerful technology to its full potential.
Subsea cable alternatives can provide a level of comfort for those concerned about disruptions. Realistically, they will continue to play a small, but critical role in the short term.
