MS faces Vista lawsuit

Microsoft is the target of a new class-action lawsuit, this time over its marketing of Windows Vista. Started by a PC buyer from Washington state, Dianne Kelley, the suit alleges that Microsoft knowingly deceived computer shoppers with its "Windows Vista Capable" stickers, designed to keep sales steady in advance of Vista's release. PCs bearing the sticker can indeed run Vista; the problem, according to Kelley's lawyer, is that Microsoft was not clear in saying that the sticker only guarantees compatibility with Vista Home Basic, and not the more heavily-promoted Premium versions. Only Home Premium, Business and Ultimate support features such as Media Center and Flip3D window-switching.

Microsoft has responded by saying it has "conducted a very broad and unprecendented effort" to ensure both shoppers and the industry are aware of the differences and requirements for each edition of Vista. The primary example of this is the Vista Premium Ready sticker, which specifically addresses requirements for Home Premium. The lawsuit, however, makes the accusation that the "Capable" sticker was deliberately ambiguous, and that Microsoft's marketing efforts have made Vista synonymous with Home Premium. Kelley is seeking unspecified damages in compensation. [via Seattle Post-Intelligencer]

By Electronista Staff