Microsoft wasn't always so prudent with its money. I was meaning to compare to when Microsoft's favorite thing to do with cash was to burn it. Remember Skype?
I wouldn't be surprised if this (welcome) new strategy isn't at least partially inspired by observing how Apple does things.
What is this Skype thing you speak of? I can't tell if that's the burning of cash or planting a tree... since that business unit will likely be decent on paper until it becomes pretty great on paper. I mean who would be using some voice/video calling software over their existing data connections instead of paying for per-minute land line rates through their telco's?
Also, for enterprise & institutions using Exchange, many seem to be loving Lync, etc. for IM+ services. Skype seems like a decent long-term play. Also, good for the IP.
I wouldn't be surprised if this (welcome) new strategy isn't at least partially inspired by observing how Apple does things.