ITinfo: Smart Tags Removed From Windows XP

Windows XP Won't Include Smart Tags

Microsoft plays to the public by crippling its software

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Smart Tags Removed From Windows XP

by Dave Murphy
ISSN 1535-3613

Microsoft has decided to exclude Smart Tags--a technology that could alter the web surfing habits of millions of consumers--from the version of Windows XP that will ship on October 25, 2001.

Smart Tags allow webpages to be linked to another site. Similar to the effect of hypertext links, Smart Tags automatically assign keywords within the body of a page to a specified URL (Uniform Resource Locator), a webpage address.

Smart Tags are now available in Internet Explorer 6; however, the feature will be removed in the IE version due to ship with Windows XP.

Dave's Opinion

Microsoft's decision is in response to widespread criticism that the company is resorting to heavy-handed tactics associated with 800 pound gorillas. Smart Tag technology could be used to create exclusive ties between Microsoft and sites that have a commercial partnership with Microsoft.

However, when I look at the big picture, I see that Microsoft actually comes out ahead by removing Smart Tags from IE and Windows XP. The feature is already installed in Office XP, the full-featured application suite; by crippling Windows XP, Microsoft's PR machine gets to publicize their support of a more open Internet e-commerce environment.

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updated June 28, 2001
http://dgl.com/itinfo/2001/it010628.html