Computer makers defend 'vaporware'
Article Abstract:
Federal Judge Stanley Sporkin lambasted the software industry's use of vaporware to hurt the sales of rival companies in his rejection of the consent decree between Microsoft and the Justice Department. Sporkin contends that using vaporware is deceitful and illegal. But many software industry participants question whether the Judge understands how the industry operates. They contend that good vaporware that is used to inform customers beforehand what the company will offer in the future. Most business customers appreciate the information because it enables them to plan their business more effectively. Companies use bad vaporware to announce new products, which they might not be actually developing, to harm a rival's sales. Industry observers note that nearly 100% of the industry uses vaporware in its marketing strategies. Most observers contend that the practice is not illegal.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Quorum to unveil Apple adaptation for workstations
Article Abstract:
Quorum Software Systems Inc announces its development of a new kind of software program that allows UNIX-based workstations to run Apple Macintosh applications. The new technology is called a 'compatibility engine' and is designed to allow workstation users, which mainly run technical applications, to run popular business applications. Industry observers note that the announcement holds promise for Apple since software vendors are likely to continue writing Macintosh applications if they know there is a secondary market for workstation users. However, the software could be viewed as a threat since users no longer have to purchase Macintosh microcomputers to run the popular programs. The new products are an emulation software called Quorum Equal and a data conversion package called Quorum Latitude. They should be available during 1992.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Computer makers are hurrying to create portables incorporating cellular modems. Privacy quietly becomes a concern
- Abstracts: For Intel, tide is abruptly turning as analysts question whether it can retain profit margin. LSI Logic's quarterly charge reflects plans to update chip-making process
- Abstracts: Computer and peripherals industry. Computer makers likely to post weak results for June 30 quarter
- Abstracts: AT&T puts equipment unit up for sale in what is seen as start of asset sales. Motorola to unveil next-generation cellular phone, the lightest on the market
- Abstracts: MCI remains the darling of growth stocks despite price war with competitors. Centex Telemanagement seen as vulnerable to phone rate restructuring in California