is windows open source yet?
does their business model still require users to get locked into the platform?
opening up on some patents is a step toward trust. but it sure smells stinky.
lockin is even more important with msft's new "windows as a service" model they're working on. maybe a calculated risk to put the patents out there -- to gain trust, then once embraced, extinguish. because that is what increases shareholder value.