I think the problem is that the definition of "operating system" has been warped over the years, and customers can think only in terms of bundled programs and n

I think the problem is that the definition of "operating system" has been warped over the years, and customers can think only in terms of bundled programs and not the capabilities of...well...the operating system. From a software developer's point of view, a single target is most valuable. If I have to worry about the availability of APIs or libraries based on Microsoft's arbitrary bundles, it's a huge problem (not only because explaining the "problem" to customers becomes my job, but because it means Microsoft is arbitrarily limiting the size of the potential market). If 3rd party programs all work the same no matter what version of Windows 7 is in use, it should be fine.