If I understand it correctly, Microsoft also "acquired" the rights to OpenGL. Originally MS indicated DX10 would not be possible outside of Vista due to virtual machine constraints unavailable in the XP operating system. Then, it was reported, they made certain concessions allegedly because of Nvidia's inability to meet certain DX10 requirements, thus the door was opened for 3rd party programmers to devise an XP compatible rendition of DX10. Either way, DX or OpenGL, MS is in the driver's seat and any decision will most certainly be to the advantage of the corporation's ledger. I would be surprised if they adopted a position that did not require the adoption of Vista to receive the supposed benefit offered by DX10.
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Spectre
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