I just read an
article by Anders Brenna which is a journalist working for
Teknisk Ukeblad and he had just some hours ago recieved a press release from Microsoft claiming that they are in *FAVOR* of the campaign themselves...!
I have included the entire press release below for references, though it was written in Norwegian so I ran it through Google Translate to get my average reader to be able to understand it ;)
Many advantages of upgrading to the latest version of Internet Explorer(OSLO, 19 February). Microsoft Norway will stress that there has been a major development on the Web since IE6 was released. Better support for international webstandarder and improved functionality enables those who may consider upgrading to Internet Explorer 7 or the latest test version of Internet Explorer 8
We will also stress that it is still safe to use Internet Explorer 6 - Microsoft is working continuously to enhance both security and usability in all our products and services. In newer versions of Internet Explorer's support for international webstandarder, functionality and security significantly improved.
Therefore we support the call for the upgrade from Internet Explorer 6 or newer versions. At the same time, it is important to remind that many companies have internal systems that are linked to Internet Explorer 6
To avoid transition problems, we recommend IT managers in these companies to use published guidelines for upgrading to newer versions of Internet Exlorer, "says Isabella Alveberg, Director of Windows in Microsoft Norway.
As a general rule, Microsoft is encouraging both private individuals and businesses to use the latest version of their products and services. Internet Explorer 7 is the latest browser from Microsoft and can be downloaded from the following address: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/ie/getitnow.mspx
We have understanding for the initiative several site owners have taken to get users to upgrade to versions that better support international webstandarder. It makes it easier for site owners to design web pages and provide the foundation for a more seamless internet. At the same time, it is important to respect that many websites are custom Internet Explorer 6 websites
Upgrades that do not take account of this history can lead to many web pages are difficult to read for users. IE7 and increasingly IE8 safeguards both these considerations. Can be implemented with the new initiative will lead to an even better experience for all. Internet Explorer users may at any time and without that there is a price to upgrade to newer versions, end Alveberg. For many companies provide standardized and predictable IT environments-a significant business gains.
Internet Explorer provides for this, predictable updates via Windows Update and Windows Update Services. IT professionals who want to update can find information about this here: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/ie/default.aspx. For those who want to look into the functionality of Internet Explorer 8 (IE8), which will be launched in its final version later this year, the latest test version available for download from here: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/beta/default.aspx.
Users must then be aware that some sites do not yet support IE8 fully. Here are some of the news users can make use of in IE8: The new accelerator function in Internet Explorer 8 lets handle your daily browser tasks faster, more efficiently and easily. InPrivate browsing allows you to surf websites without having to leave the track. This can be useful if you use the Internet to a web cafe, or looking for a gift for the family PC.
It help you keep track of stock quotes, weather reports, sports results and status, online can be very time consuming. Web slices are a new feature that helps you save time, you do not have to check the same website multiple times to get the relevant information. Better search - The enhanced search feature gives you search suggestions as you enter the words in the search. By using the Live Search, you can also get visual previews in the browser's search box.
Smart Screen filter helps to protect you from phishing websites and websites that try to install malicious software on your computer. Internet Explorer 8 also provides a more stable browsing experience. If a site gets the browser to freeze that only the current browser tab is affected, your browser itself remains stable
No I hardly believe that this means they're not afraid of all those "best viewed with a *standard compliant* browser" - (Opera, Safari, FireFox, Chrome) messages that are *bound* to surface over the next couple of days, but at least it means that you can claim that "even Microsoft supports our campaign" if you're questioned by a senior when putting in the
Don't use IE6 banner... ;)
.t