I think it rarely makes sense to view Microsoft as one consistent entity; you have to look at which division is doing this and what are they're motives[1]. The

I think it rarely makes sense to view Microsoft as one consistent entity; you have to look at which division is doing this and what are they're motives[1]. The Azure bit may have some affinity to the Windows Server division but probably doesn't feel pressure to sell desktop OS or Microsoft Office licenses. I think Azure wants to attract developers away from GAE and AWS, in that context this move makes perfect sense. This is no more unusual than MS Office being available on Mac or Silverlight support being somewhat absent from Windows 8. Both things make some degree of sense when you 'follow the money'. [1]: http://www.businessinsider.com/big-tech-org-charts-2011-6 http://www.businessinsider.com/big-tech-org-charts-2011-6