Microsoft scales back Vista piracy software

[Uber_Tiny]

Microsoft Corp. is pulling back from a system that disables programs on users' computers if it suspects the software is pirated, opting instead for a gentler approach based on nagging alerts.

Microsoft said late Monday it will roll out the new version of Windows Genuine Advantage with the first "service pack" for Windows Vista, due in the first quarter of 2008.

When computer users activate a copy of Windows Vista or try to download certain software from Microsoft's Web site, the Windows Genuine Advantage system scans their PCs for signs of pirated software. Today, if the tool finds an unauthorized copy of Vista, the glassy Vista user experience disappears and other features are suspended.

In the new version, PC users found to have a pirated copy of Vista will continue to be able to use their computers, but with unmistakable signs their operating system is a fake. The desktop wallpaper will turn black, and a white notice will appear alerting users to the problem. Each time they log in, they will be prompted to buy legitimate software, and every hour, a reminder bubble will appear on the screen.

MSNBC LINK

[m3talc0re]

Lol, what's funny is that I bet half of Vista's user base is users that don't own a legit copy of Vista

All that crap just makes me glad I'm still stickin' with XP. Vista can kiss my ass for another 2-3 years problably

[Uraloserface101]

i agree Metalcore, i have vista, i like the way it looks, but thats it!!! its way too buggy, they should have just waited