Different Version of Vista

I was part of a discussion today where we discussed the rumored 7 different packaged versions of Windows Vista, like this is a scary monopolistic thing, or something else Evil®.

The way that I see the different versions of the OS is kind of like shopping for a car. Imagine if people bitched about how many model/trim combos there are!

Honda Accord
....Coupe
........LX
........EX
........LX V-6
........EX V-6 6MT
........EX-V6
....Sedan
........Value Package
........LX
........LX Special Edition
........EX
........LX V-6
........EX V-6 6MT
........EX V-6
....Hybrid

I see this as a way for MS to offer varying levels of the same OS, but offering different functionality for those who need (or want) it. For instance, if you don’t need (want) the packaged media player (for the commies Socialists in the EU), then buy a version that doesn’t offer it.

However, maybe they will only package a feature that you want (need) with media player, in which case, you’re stuck with it.

I ran into a similar situation when I bought my Windstar. We wanted the factory video, but it wasn’t offered in any of the lower trim packages, so we were stuck either getting the SEL or the Limited packages. Sure, we could have gotten a stripped down Windstar trim and then installed an aftermarket video solution, but we decided to go with the package from the factory.

Even though the video system is what we wanted, we also had to get things like adjustable pedals, self-sealing tires, flat-tire indicator, digital information center, and backup sensors (which I love, btw). There's really no way to easily uninstall these features simply because I didn't want them.

No one calls this anti-competitive in the automotive industry.