Microsoft says it is now a premium sponsor of the Open Source Initiative (OSI). In doing so, the company is joining other major competitors such as Google, Facebook, and IBM. The decision furthers Microsoft increasing love of open source in general. We have seen the company embrace Linux after once calling the platform a cancer and warning it threatened development. “Today’s announcement represents one more step in Microsoft’s open-source journey, and our increased role in advocacy for the use, contribution, and release of open-source software, both with our customers and the ecosystem at large.” Since those direct competitor days, Microsoft has been forced to expand. The cloud and the success of Azure has made embracing open source inevitable. Microsoft took the hint and last year became a Platinum member of the Linux Foundation. Incidentally, Linux is also a member of OSI. In terms of power within OSI, Google trumps Microsoft as the company has a seat on the OSI board. However, Microsoft is board member of the Linux Foundation. Either way, Microsoft’s continues to move into the open space with increasing pace.
Microsoft Embracing Open Source
Over the last year, Microsoft has released Ubuntu to the Windows Store for Windows 10. Other services getting the Linux treatment are Azure App Services, Office 2016, Skype, PowerShell, and more. Microsoft has also fully open sources many of its solutions. However, that does not mean the company is about to make Windows or Edge browser open anytime soon. Still, it is important that the company continues to move towards an open ecosystem environment. “This is a significant milestone for the OSI and the open-source software movement more broadly,” Patrick Masson, OSI general manager and board director, said in a statement. “I don’t think there could be any greater testament to the maturity, viability, interest, and success of open-source software than not only Microsoft’s recognition, but also their support as a sponsor, as well as their participation as contributors to so many open-source projects and communities.”
