Microsoft’s CEO, Steve Ballmer, admits that he has brainwashed his family and doesn’t allow any products from competitors in his household.
When he was asked in a recent interview whether he owned an iPod or not (sheesh, journalists sure luuuuv to ask this question) he answered:
“No, I do not,” he replied. “Nor do my children. My children–in many dimensions they’re as poorly behaved as many other children, but at least on this dimension I’ve got my kids brainwashed: You don’t use Google, and you don’t use an iPod.”
Not using an iPod is bearable. “Painful”, but bearable. But not being able to use Google… now that’s just cold.
“Not using an iPod is bearable. “Painful”, but bearable. But not being able to use Google… now that’s just cold.”
I wouldn’t survive!
Anyway, what email provider does he have his kids use? Hotmail?!?
I don’t which one they have, but it’s certainly not Yahoo or Gmail ;)
Best article ever!
Trans dimensional children?
It doesn’t matter they’re loaded, they don’t need to use Google. They can do it the old fashioned way, by using msn *smirk*.
What about letting his kids play Nintendo?
Hmm … maybe he was saying that in jest. I mean, I’d let my kids use the competition’s product if it were really good.
@jangelo: I don’t know if I would the same in his shoes. If you were the manufacturer for some product it wouldn’t be good publicity for your own kids to advertise your opponent’s.
In the end it would be more ridiculous for him and his company if his kids did use iPods or Macs.
But you could use iPods with Windows. And it’s not like people would recognize you using Google when you’re walking on the street. :)
You can use iPods with Windows, but Microsoft has their own media devices known as PMPs with their special Media OS. That’s why I said not using an iPod was bearable but not using Google was ridiculous.
Ah, yes, the MS-based media players. At any rate, Steve’s kids are likely rich enough they won’t bother to get iPods. They can get all the Microsoft-powered equipment they want!
As for Google, well, I can just imagine Steve telling his kids not to click on any AdSense ads!
I think his children are aliens
Can you imagine what this must be like? Knowing:
a) their Dad is one of the most universally ridiculed idiots on the planet;
b) that their myopic father is responsible for some of the flakiest products ever made
c) that however crap his products are, you’ll be forced to use them, while all your mates get small, cool, reliable stuff
Jeez, that must be really tough. Billionaire or not, I know what I’d prefer – the latitude to think for myself.