Dear Microsoft,
With your recent purchase of Giant Software, you’ve indicated a desire to enter the market of spyware removal tools. According to this article, Microsoft is considering the idea of charging customers for this product.
Please don’t.
Here’s what you should do:
Develop this technology into a “Windows Cleaner” product. Make it integrate with Windows XP SP2 and the Security Center, and distribute it as part of a “security pack” over Windows Update. Then… keep the program up-to-date using WU.
I want the average user to be able to download this free spyware removal tool easily. I want this tool to be simple and effective to use, and always up to date. If you want to make this thing Windows XP-only, or only free to Windows XP users (or only SP2) users, fine. Although, preferably it should also work on at least Windows 2000.
Next, I want this tool to monitor the system for stealth installation attempts.
But the quality of the product is something I’m sure Microsoft can do. However, what concerns me more is how Microsoft will market the program. Personally, I think this is a great opportunity for Microsoft to show their “non-Evil” or compassionate side. If you’re not sure what I mean, talk to the MSN guys. They seem to have gotten the idea.
Tell the world that when you buy a Windows product, you’re buying more than just a piece of software. You’re buying a commitment from Microsoft to the platform and to you, the user.
If handled correctly, this could be a massive PR boost for Microsoft and the Windows platform. Don’t screw it up.