Microsoft decried how the injunction would disrupt "the fastest Java Virtual Machine available." This is, of course, a flat out lie - IBM's OS/2 JVM is way faster than their Windows version.

Microsoft's intent was to distribute their "polluted" (Microsoft's term) version of Java far and wide, so it has been embedded in nearly all their products, either directly or through Internet Explorer 4.0 (without which most current Microsoft products will refuse to install). They have been using their influence over the software development community to convince programmers to apply their non-standard features "for better performance".

Most Java participants are delighted with the injunction, except one class of software developers: those that "bet on the wrong horse". These "All Microsoft" shops have been set back months in development time.

Microsoft has considered its options, including "The option of not supporting Java at all . . ." (Paul Maritz, Microsoft vp for platforms and applications). They decided they had better keep their fingers in the pie and claim they will comply.

Microsoft's actions will be closely watched, because Microsoft has a long history of complying in word only. Their expressed intent now is to become compliant, but leave their "pollution" in, with a warning label. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out they will try to convince programmers to ignore the warning.

If Microsoft finds they cannot corrupt Java in the long run, they are likely to drop support entirely. They have already pulled Java off their Web TV product earlier this month (and users are not happy about it), and Bill Gates personally banned Java from any MCSP (Microsoft Certified Solution Partner) sites that feed through Microsoft's Web pages.

If Microsoft pulls support entirely, it will have limited effect on Windows users. Sun and others already provide full Java support for the Windows platform.