A number of unique consolidations are happening in the industry just as Microsoft is trying to get a buzz going about Vista.
The timing couldn't be better, but there are bound to be numerous shake-outs and a few collapses. And Microsoft looks vulnerable, too.
The most important event is the formation of the Linux Foundation. This is an attempt by the major players, including Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and Intel, to create a standard Linux and discourage the continued trend toward various distros that are subtly incompatible with each other and certain applications.
Windows Vista's 'Mac'-Ness Might Open Door for Linux Takeover.