Asus backs Windows in latest Microsoft campaign

Asus and Microsoft have launched a website that promotes the use of Windows, arguing that the operating system provides users with a familiar environment and no compatibility issues.

The site, 'It's Better With Windows', presents a video of a family using several of Asus's 7-inch screened Eee PCs, and depicts the family members using word processing, instant messaging and other applications.

Asus' introduction of the modern netbook concept was a major factor in the recent resurgence of desktop Linux, as the Eee PC was originally launched as a Linux device in 2007. Since then, Microsoft has been forced to repeatedly extend the lifespan of Windows XP as a netbook operating system, as Vista does not comfortably run on low-powered devices such as netbooks.

silicon.com sister site ZDNet UK asked Asus on Friday why it was participating in the pro-Windows advertisements with Microsoft, and was told that the PC manufacturer tries to "retain impartiality between the operating systems".

"Unfortunately in terms of demand in the market, people largely recognise that demand for Windows XP in netbooks has increased over the last 12 months," an Asus spokesman said, adding that the company had not "gone out of [its] way to encourage people to choose XP over Linux".

Original article: Asus and Microsoft launch pro-Windows website from CNET News.com