Don't Want IE7? Some Users May Not Have a Choice

http://news.com.com/Microsoft+tags+IE+7+high+priority+update/2100-7350_3-6098500.html?tag=nefd.lede
from WinCustomize Forums
The word on the street is that consumers may not have a choice on upgrading to Internet Explorer 7 when Microsoft decides to release it.  CNet is reporting that Microsoft will push the browser update as a "high priority" update via the automatic update system much in the same way it pushed the WGA anti-piracy tool earlier this year.

"The justification, of course is the significant security enhancements in IE 7" says Gary Schare, Microsoft's director of IE product management.

However, more savvy users will be able to block the update by either un-checking it from the list of updates to be installed or by downloading a special tool to block the automatic delivery of the update.  This tool is mainly targeted at enterprises who wish to control the flow of patches into their environment so they can be more thoroughly tested.

10,712 views 28 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I hope this update comes out soon . IE7 refuses to install on my system after uninstalling the beta 2, so it would be nice to have it back on the rare occasion I actually open the browser. But forcing users to upgrade is just stupid, imho. I know my mom won't be to happy about this.

Thanks for the heads up Zoomab .
Reply #2 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Strange.....that sounds so much more 'take it or else'-slanted than....

By Ed Oswald, BetaNews

July 26, 2006, 1:13 PM

Microsoft announced distribution plans for Internet Explorer 7 on Wednesday, saying it would make the next-generation browser available as a high-priority download via the Automatic Updates feature. However, the company would make available an option to 'opt out' of the update, including an application for enterprise users to block the update across their entire network.

When the new browser is released, those who have Automatic Updates will be greeted with a screen giving them an option to either install, ask later, or opt out of installing IE7 altogether. This would ensure customers are prepared to upgrade, Director of Internet Explorer Product Management Gary Schare told BetaNews.

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Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Sorry...but that DEFINITELY sounds like a choice is being given...
Reply #4 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Yeah, exactly who are these users not being given a choice?

In any case, given the fact that IE7 is more secure and more standards compliant, I'm glad Microsoft is encouraging everyone to update.
Reply #5 from WinCustomize Forums Top
The CNet report clearly states you'll have a choice....


Although IE 7 will be pushed out over Automatic Updates, people will be able to choose whether they want to install it or not, Schare said. Automatic Updates will first notify people when IE 7 is ready to install and then show a welcome screen that presents key features and the choices to install, not install or postpone installation.

Some users may choose to click OK without reading the options first, but that is still a choice.

Reply #6 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Sensational headlines like that, which doesn't even reflect what's in their own story, is just the type of thing that causes people to mistrust the media. They've backed off on their original headline, and the ensuing comments have disappeared, but it should have never been the headline in the first place.
Reply #7 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I Tested IE7 it looks to much like fire fox. I don't like how there is that search menu you cant turn off and the "file, edit, view" menu is under the back forward buttons finally the grouping of browser windows really annoying.. might just be that there not done yet. but now you tell me that they will want me to update or else.. yea that's Microsoft for yeah
Reply #9 from WinCustomize Forums Top
but now you tell me that they will want me to update or else..


Of course you could have chosen to read the 4 comments posted above yours in which the posters clearly state that there will indeed be an option as to whether or not the update is installed. However, as Koasati stated there will undoubtedly be lots of people who click without reading the prompt and then complain that the update was installed in a subversive manner and they weren't given any notice that it was going to happen..
Reply #10 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Even if nobody had a choice, and we were all forced to install IE7, what's the big deal? You don't want a more secure browser with a bunch of new features?
Reply #11 from WinCustomize Forums Top
It's funny how the Microsoft bashers only see what they want to see. No matter what they do, those people always see it as something evil. Bill Gates could cure AIDS and they'd bitch that he didn't cure cancer.

It's almost humorous to read the comments for any CNET article that has anything to do with Microsoft. No matter what the story's about, the vast majority of comments are negative, often brutally.
Reply #12 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Even if nobody had a choice, and we were all forced to install IE7, what's the big deal? You don't want a more secure browser with a bunch of new features?


In theory Adamness the situation could deifinitely be far worse but there are people out there who use anything and everything to try and prove that MS is up to no good. This would just be another chance for them to make a mountain out of a molehill, to use an old addage..
Reply #13 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Um, it's new code, and hence, likely to contain problems. I normally always wait until EVERYONE agrees it is safe to install before doing so.

So, it is ironic to note that it won't install without passing WGA so it's another example of where the pirates are going to be safe from possible problems with this new code, while the average legitimate user has to actually choose not to install it to be safe.

Hopefully the program won't have significant problems...but, um, what are the odds?
Reply #14 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Sensational headlines like that, which doesn't even reflect what's in their own story, is just the type of thing that causes people to mistrust the media


Yes, but those headlines are how they get you to click through, which generates new pages, which contain new ads, which is how all these sites make money. So, this is why ALL of the media is massively fear/hype driven now, with the truth being a casualty of the almighty dollar.
Reply #15 from WinCustomize Forums Top
So, it is ironic to note that it won't install without passing WGA so it's another example of where the pirates are going to be safe from possible problems with this new code, while the average legitimate user has to actually choose not to install it to be safe.

I think this is a good example of why spyware, viruses and worms proliferate. Too many people think it's a burden to choose not to install something, even when it's clearly laid out as option.
Reply #16 from WinCustomize Forums Top
The title is rubbish... someones has been on Digg.com too much

"Make the title exciting!!!"

If you select to hide IE in app preferences, you won't be even asked to upgrade,
Reply #17 from WinCustomize Forums Top
The title is rubbish... someones has been on Digg.com too much



I agree, I am beginning to wonder if Zoomba just figured out how to use diggspy, and suddenly feels the urge to post everything he sees on it here. Seriously, I have seen SEVERAL stories as of late that are obviously mined from digg. Shame, because the commenting system there is better, and if the folks here wanted that, I am sure they would be / are commenting there.

Wonder if WC would ever consider improving their news/commenting system. The user base is definitely there, and it could be an excellent balance to the Mac/Linux-centric spin over there. Hmmm, although I, personally, am a self-proclaimed Mac Fanboy, I think I would really enjoy seeing a well-crafted forum from the other side. Sort of like how I prefer NPR, but I listen to Rush Limbaugh and Watch Fox News to get the information from the other side's point of view.

Shame it will probably never happen though. I guess I will have to wait to be proven wrong.
Reply #18 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I had IE7 Beta 2, and installed Beta 3 last night. I like it, which surprizes me, because, I'm a Firefox person. I've used Firefox for about 3 years, until I DLed the IE7 Beta 2 a while back. Just used it occasionally, but it's beeen more and more here latley. Guess I got kinda used to it. And, if you know anything about computers, you don't have to DL anything you don't want. Been on the net for 7 or 8 years. Never had a virus or trojan or anything I didn't want.
Reply #19 from WinCustomize Forums Top
they should push people to update, the fixes in ie7 should take a big weight off of their backs. For the 90% of people who don't read the prompts when they hit 'ok', you patch them up to be less of a hazard to themselves. I'm glad that they also permit those who want to stay on 6 to do so.
Reply #20 from WinCustomize Forums Top
That's a great point, DesignCaddy! The people who automatically press OK for everything are exactly the people who should have this thrust upon them. The people who are more responsible can decide for themselves.
Reply #21 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Sigh. People moan because they want IE more secure, then when a more secure version comes along they moan because they don't want it.

Some people don't deserve to have a choice   

Reply #22 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Why is this even news? Of course MS is going to release it as an update...it is a more secure browser. Seems like common sense to me. It is not like users are going to be forced to use it over other browsers anyway as Windows has not had an update that makes it where only IE will work, and nor is that likely to ever happen.
Reply #23 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Seems like common sense to me.


If only this statement were true for everyone! I too feel that making the upgrade to IE7 automatic is a good thing but you can't discount the haters out there. MS can't win for losing, they're damned if they do and damned if they don't as I fear it always will be...
Reply #24 from WinCustomize Forums Top
However 'required' microsoft make it, there's a way to not install it. When the little bubble appears saying you have updates ready to install, simply, you can click on it and choose the custom install and don't install IE7. I however want it, i think the new design is great, somewhat similar to FireFox, but I like it.
Reply #25 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I hope that IE7 get forced on people. Not from a security point of view, but from a webdeveloeprs point of view.