I’m not a big fan of Apple’s Gestapo approach to silence and security; they’re psychotic.
However, Microsoft is horribly loose-lipped. They can’t launch a single product without at least a year of hype and buildup (usually more).
Take this quote from a Microsoft VP John Mangelaars:
“[Apple is] doing well on the PC side but Windows 7 is a blockbuster. We got it really right. For me, Windows 8 will be mind-blowing.”
Windows 7 is a good operating system, but its sales and reputation have greatly benefited from diminished expectations. Tons of users avoided Vista because it sucked, and those that did upgrade were typically disappointed. Windows 7 was a glass of water in the middle of a desert.
Expectations are going to be much higher for the next operating system.
Windows 8 might be amazing, but why start the hype so early? If it really is superb, the word will spread quickly without Microsoft execs running their mouths.
The Geek Whisperer 
I just knew from the title it would be a rant :-D
Yeah, but it’s a level-headed rant.
David, I completely agree with you! I was so frustrated using Vista that just about any improvement made by Microsoft would have been fantastic.