G4TV

News From The Feed

Microsoft's "Mojave Experiment" Fools People Into Liking Vista

Posted by Brian Leahy - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:20 AM

There's no denying that Vista's reception hasn't been the best and Microsoft would like to change the image of their newest OS. They are trying that with their new marketing project, the Mojave Experiment.

Basically, Microsoft brought in consumers that had never used Vista and had them test the next version of Windows codenamed "Mojave".

At first, Microsoft asked the consumers about why they haven't upgraded to Vista and basically got responses saying that people heard it was slow, buggy, and not worth their money.

Then, they tested out "Mojave" and loved the "new" OS. They were actually testing Vista. Owned.

Here's how Microsoft is advertising the project:

"Welcome to the 'Mojave Experiment.' What do people think of Windows Vista when they don't know it's Windows Vista? We disguised Windows Vista as codename 'Mojave,' the 'next Microsoft OS,' so regular people who've never used Windows Vista could see what it can do - and decide for themselves. Now decide for yourself."

So, we wanted to ask you if you've actually used Vista and what do you think about the OS? If you haven't used Vista, why are you not upgrading?

Check out the videos of regular people getting fooled by Microsoft at The Mojave Experiment. Remember, this is part of an advertising campaign so it should be taken with a large grain of salt.

The Mojave Experiment




Comment(s)

Posted by WVUrook - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:38 AM

I like using XP, but my new computer came with Vista. I have had massive problems with Vista Home's security settings. I am set as the administrator, and there are no other accounts, but any time I try to do ANYTHING, even as low level as copying a file, I have to give myself permission to do it.

Also, now that the new version of Flash came out, Vista won't let me upgrade. I can't even read G4 or The Feed. Internet explorer is completely worthless without the upgrade. I've had to start using mozilla, which upgraded fine.

Posted by Tumtum - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:38 AM

jesus christ G4, this is old, OLD news...

Posted by Jamagh - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:41 AM

Well... I just heard about this. And I hate Vista. my laptop has it... everytime I need to do something... I have to tell it that it is ok. Yeah, stupid MS. Eh... better than mac.

Posted by rpm285sm - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:43 AM

Well of course a bunch of idiots who cant figure out that Microsoft wont have two new operating systems available at the same time were fooled. These people are quite obviously not qualified to tell people who actually know how to use a computer whether an OS is decent or not. I've hardly used Vista but I've basically been tech support for my younger brother on his Vista computer and, from what I've seen, it continues Microsoft's trend of making OS's more "user friendly" which translates into taking options away from users who know the difference between gigabytes and gigahertz while also making the process bulkier and more resource intensive.

Posted by tr00p3r - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:53 AM

yes vista blowws donkeys. it sucks you have to give your self permission to copy a file! WTF! the secerity is cool but also sucks. i miss my xp

Posted by neoernie - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:54 AM

Microsoft is lame for doing this....

Posted by kison21 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:54 AM

I think once you properly configure Vista, it's great and, eventhough I've only had my Vista laptop for about 6 months, I have not had any major issues with it. Now then again I don't do much on the computer other than web browsing and streaming media to the PS3.

Posted by The_Ancient - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:56 AM

I'm using vista right now and it sucks.

Posted by stevegel - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:57 AM

Vista still sucks...I went back to XP.

Posted by MK20 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 10:58 AM

"Eh... better than mac."

Incorrect.

I had been a windows user my whole life until I got a MacBook Pro last January. I've only had one problem with it, but it was fixed easily, so you should probably know what you are talking about before you start talking.

Countless crashes, freezes, and viruses on my PC were the reasons for switching, (especially since I got a worm the day I hooked up my internet when I moved to college) and with the exception of work, I will never switch back. Windows has so many pointless hurdles to jump through just to find a file.

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:01 AM

I'm not sure what others are doing that is causing them to have problems, but I've never had a problem with Vista. I guess it's like that RRoD that my XBox has never suffered from in its two years of use. Hopefully, Microsoft will release a stupidity patch to fix everyone's problem.

Posted by NE0chan - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:04 AM

Vista never crashed or had security problems for me, but didn't The Feed already post this story before?

Posted by Nezacant - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:06 AM

Vista is not as bad as people claim. I find it funny how many people complain about vista asking for permission for opening .exe files and "copy a file". (BTW it only ask for permission for copy/paste if its being done in "Program Files" and other system related folders)

No one ever mentions you can turn that off. And its easy. Its called User Account Control and it's located under Users in the control panel as a check box. Do so at your own risk and don't come crying when Uju5tG0tPWNdVirus.exe runs wild on your computer when vista could have asked you if you wanted to run the exe.

Posted by h0m3star - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:10 AM

If you watch the videos, it's painfully obvious that they're acting.

Posted by Smartguy81 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:15 AM

For all the idiots out there who do not like Vista's User Account Control...simply turn it off. If you can't figure it out, google it. Easy as that.

I have been using Vista since it launched and it has never once crashed on me. If you don't have a decent machine you shouldn't upgrade. That is common knowledge. I find it interesting that most people who dislike Vista are the ones who are pissed you have to pay to use an operating system...or generally hate MS anyway.

Tell me this...if you bought a car and I sold gas..should I give you the gas for free since you bought the car?

Posted by Tumtum - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:19 AM

ha G4 took away my comment so Ill say it again.

This is OLD news G4, WEEKS old!

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:27 AM

Chill out Tumtum and go eat something. I mean haven't you seen the ad all over the feed?

Posted by bleahy - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:27 AM

Actually we didn't take away your comment.

Therefore, your comment is OLD.

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:30 AM

lmao

Posted by Whiteguy128 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:31 AM

any one find it ironic that the problems that the "test subjects" reported (bugs, compatibility issues, performance) were not addressed when the people were shown vista. They just showed them the features of vista on shiny new computers.

Posted by theg90 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:33 AM

Vista is a good OS to use: you can play the games, and if you don't liek it, deal with it or install Ubuntu. Simple and easy

Or you could spend $3000 on a Mac, $100 to transfer the files, and about $50 to get into customer service. Don't forget the $200 it takes to get ANY good programs. I don't care for making movies or blogs, Apple!

Posted by Asrugan - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:34 AM

It's funny because so many people universally hated XP shortly after launch.

Posted by MK20 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:40 AM

$3000, $100 to transfer files, $50 to get into customer service? What are you talking about, dude?

And it's not like legal software is cheap for any platform.

Plus, decent podcasting/recording software comes pre-installed, but I forgot, you probably just want to check you e-mail, surf the web, and chat with you buddies. To each his own.

I'll use my computer for what it is designed for, and you use your $300 computer with it's shiny $$$ OS (Vista Ultimate=$400, btw)

Posted by megamanxzxz - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:40 AM

im just waiting til i get a new computer after school to upgrade. no sense in loading a new OS on my school computer that runs just fine

Posted by CPRxChris - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:45 AM

There are ads for "The Mojave Experiment" on this page as I type this comment.

Posted by cogadh - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:49 AM

Actually, I loved XP after its launch. When I first got it I said to myself "Finally, MS did something right". However, I recently tried Vista and found that all the progress MS made with XP was thrown out the window (pun intended). The OS is little more than bloated eye-candy with security "features" designed for the lowest common denominator in computer users. Its basically an OS with training wheels. I outgrew training wheels back in the Win 95 days, why would I put them back on now? Don't even get me started on the ridiculous overheard and poor compatibility of Vista...

Posted by saxybeast418 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:49 AM

The Mojave Experiment is a load of garbage.

Consider:

1) There are about 50 people total shown as participants.
2) Of those, only a handful are shown in the actual movie as people who like Vista.
3) Microsoft brought their own machines. They did not try to install it on the customers' machines; rather, they brought all of the optimal components to run Vista.
4) A salesperson walked the participants through the experiment.

Salespeople can color your vision so that you see their products in the best possible way. The fact is that Vista is certainly FUNCTIONAL after numerous updates; however, it is a buggy product. The problem with Microsofts' success is that they can get away with RROD and buggy launches for Windows, and that translates into lower quality products and services.

Stick with XP, install Linux, or get a Mac. Vista is more trouble than its worth unless you are a gamer with a hardcore rig.

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:50 AM

Did I comment on the ad yet or was I dreaming?

Posted by NonBeliever - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:53 AM

i got a new laptop that came with vista and it sucked because of the UAC. But then i turned it off and everything was sorta fine. But i hate vista because im used to XP and all those tiny little differences between vista and xp annoys me. WHo ever said u shouldnt use Vista without a decent computer is correct. But then again, vista comes with your crappy new pc anyways. Most of the people who complain about vista are probably the ones who bought a not so great laptop or desktop, and it IS really buggy. Also Most people dont eve KNOW about the UAC...maybe it would help to have the UAC turned off and let the user have a choice to turn it on themselves. First impressions are everything. The first month or so when i had vista i completely hated it due to the UAC. But even after i got rid of the UAC and got my old pc back with xp, i never went back to vista cause it didnt impress me. Mybe in 5 years ill give it a 2nd chance

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:56 AM

I think I commented on the RRoD as well. Still waiting on that patch though.

Posted by NonBeliever - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:58 AM

@ cogadh

same here

@ saxybeast418


well said lol.

Posted by Mynock - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:04 PM

I have done my homework on Vista. Here is the funny thing, games running on Vista need MORE then if they are running on XP. I mean WTF? I need more ram, and a faster CPU to run the SAME games, and programs on Vista. Does this sound right to anyone eles?

Posted by cogadh - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:14 PM

@Mynock - See my comment about "don't get me started on the ridiculous overhead..." Basically, the reason you need higher specs to run a game on Vista is because Vista needs much higher specs just to run in the first place. Before anyone starts spouting the whole "you need a decent computer to run Vista" crap, I shouldn't need a top end computer just to run the OS, I should only need a top end computer if I am running top end applications on that OS (like high-end games). Otherwise, the OS should only require minimal resources and mid to low end hardware, at most.

Posted by lcromy - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:21 PM

I've used Vista 64-bit for 14 months now. Love it. Best OS available.

Posted by cryfordawn - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:28 PM

I have had mine since the day of release Jan 31, 2007 and LOVE IT! Better then XP by far.. Buy a new computer suited for Vista and you will love it

Posted by stevegel - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:30 PM

@Smartguy81 dumbssa! Vista is slow! Google is your friend use it.

Posted by bullet53 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:42 PM

vista works well for me....i cant complain....

Posted by maxjive - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:43 PM

Where can you get Mojave?

Posted by Zeroultima - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:45 PM

get a decent computer and vista runs smoothly
and that permission thing only pops up when modifying system files, un/installing, etc

for general purposes and a bit of photoshoppin,
3gigs of ram and a core 2 duo should be enough to keep it running nicely
people calling vista slow need better parts

Posted by Zeroultima - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:48 PM

^running nicely with tons of slack btw.

2 gigs is alright too but you wont be able to photoshop while you're burning dvds and using firefox

who does that anyway..

Posted by ThataUFO - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:51 PM

I have vista and have not had a problem with it. Sure it can suck to ok certain actions, but I would rather have to make one more click than get a virus.


@MK20
What was your computer designed for? Oh yeah, to play music and make you feel "hip", but not much else. And if you are trying to say that macs don't crash your a loon. I use a couple at work, and they crash ALL THE TIME. Our IT guy hates them and keeps telling us to get PC's. If I have to stay late one more time because of those things im gonna throw them out a friggin window.

Posted by jarataur - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:54 PM

I'm an IT manager at a college and I cannot find a compelling reason to switch my whole campus, or anyone at all, to Vista. Why would I put a ton of effort, traning, RAM, and headaches into a switch for which there is no good reason to make? On top of that we have some systems that won't run it at all. Maybe MS can give me 100k for all those new boxes I need to buy?

Microsoft is weak sauce for trying to cut support and force us to move.

Posted by reversethedevil - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 1:01 PM

I've had no problem in the transition. But I'd never upgrade an OS on old hardware. I learned that lesson going from os9 to OSX years ago. My computer got intollerably slow and I bought a windows box b/c I couldn't afford a mac. I've been using xp for years and love it.

I bought laptop with vista and some things were frustrating and took some getting used to but I think that's pretty common with every OS switch or upgrade. It's not a bad system people just aren't used to it.

Posted by Sandrock323 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 1:04 PM

@jarataur
That is a good point but would you do it for you own personal computer.

Posted by jarataur - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 1:18 PM

@Sandrock323

I have a laptop with Vista on it. It seems to run fine - 2 GB and I play games on it. On my desktop system I still run XP. It's a little older and I don't want to invest $$ into upgrading the RAM when I'll probably get a new system in the not too distant future. When I do build that new system, and as long as I can find drivers for the hardware, I will probably be putting XP on it.

Posted by MK20 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 2:05 PM

@ThataUFO

No, I wasn't saying all macs, but the way Macs are designed, it really should be an easy fix.

Also, I use my computer for web design, making music, and graphics, and it can run all programs together with no issues, something that my PC could never imagine, it would lock up on one program, then get a virus, and then crash, and then I was unable to turn the bastard back on.

You can see why I won't go back to windows

Posted by Smartguy81 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 2:12 PM

@cogadh
Write your own O/S that is low requirements or use Linux. Problem solved. Otherwise buy or build a powerful machine.

@stevegel
No need to use google you idiot. Been using it..no problems to report here. Sorry if your dad doesn't like it and he won't buy you a new computer. No need to be bitter. As far as speed goes..hmm...nothing I do is so important for my machine to boot up in 5 seconds. Moot point there buddy. Here's some free advice..get a dual core chip (core2duo pref) and 2gb of ram...should make your life better.

Posted by jarataur - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 2:49 PM

@Sandrock323

I have a laptop with Vista on it. It seems to run fine - 2 GB and I play games on it. On my desktop system I still run XP. It's a little older and I don't want to invest $$ into upgrading the RAM when I'll probably get a new system in the not too distant future. When I do build that new system, and as long as I can find drivers for the hardware, I will probably be putting XP on it.

Posted by Minimoose360 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 2:57 PM

lol @ windows

Posted by mercisan - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 3:46 PM

I have an idea. Do a similar project with the xbox 360, and have sony fanboys test it out. I bet the findings will be similar.

After all, sony fanboys don't even know what an xbox 360 is. They've just heard that it can get the RROD; even though that's like so 2005.

Posted by ken13 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 4:56 PM

I like Vista. I turned off the UAC, and with it on, I don't really mind Windows making sure I'm not being an idiot.

Obviously a lot of you need the security features if you're getting viruses.

Posted by bigmonstefan - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 6:14 PM

I honestly haven't had any major problems with vista. If your worried about viruses then be a little more selective about your porn and torrents you silly little pervs.

Posted by Smartguy81 - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 6:40 PM

@jarataur

Vists in conjunction with Server 08 is a perfect union of software. That will make you want switch to the new platform. Granted you will need new hardware but the upgrade is worth it. If you work for a school write a grant. My company was actually having a difficult time getting some of our own software to integrate with Vista. We wrote to MS, filled out some paperwork and were awarded with a cash grant and 2 engineers to help our company. It is in MS's best interests that its customers can use their product. Just sayin

Posted by Noc_Da_Sniper - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 8:40 PM

I am using vista right now.. and mine runs fine... i guess.. i cannot install gadgets from microsofts website...anyone know how to fix that?

Posted by MISMan - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 9:19 PM

Why are you re-posting the same things you posted last week? This is the 2nd story in 2 days that you have "reposted" with NO NEW CONTENT - This and the Gears of War Lancer. Are you paid by the news story regardless of quality or # of repeats.

I have a story - I heard that Microsoft is coming out with a Next-Gen system before anyone else. I think it is called an Xbox 360 (you might check to be sure). Post a story on it so everyone knows. I am sure that Sony and Nintendo will eventually come to market with something - those will make good stories too.

Posted by Asquared16 - Sunday, August 17, 2008 9:43 PM

I have Vista on one laptop and XP on my older laptop. I just upgraded to Extreme and it's running great. I loved XP and still do. But Vista is new and it shows. I like Vista too. I was originally bothered by the user account controls at first but it wasn't bad enough to deter me from using Vista. Needless to say I turned it off.

I originally got a virus(es) with Vista home premium but now I'm using McAfee and it's stopping trojans right and left. I feel similar to one of the earlier comments which noticed the problem was with people getting used to the new OS not it's actual performance. Of course it has some, or... eh... a few flaws, but it's still pretty new.
Get over it.

Posted by Tman88 - Sunday, September 14, 2008 5:03 PM

To me, Windows is Windows. Whether it's XP or Vista. My computer has Vista and my laptop has XP. They both run similarly to me. I guess Vista for some people just takes some getting used to.

Posted by mcp3 - Sunday, September 21, 2008 1:58 AM

WOW didnt people complain about XP when it first came out.

You must Login or Register to post.
Feed Theme Preference Light | Dark
Sponsored Ad
ADVERTISEMENT

Stay connected to TheFeed 24/7. Follow us on Twitter and never miss a transmission.

Start following now »

The Feed Poll

Will You Play The New 'Transformers' Game?

View Results

Tip The Feed

Know of breaking news that should be on The Feed? Send us your "Tip" and we might post it.
Get video game news alerts on your phone.
Text G4TV to 44636
Or enter your phone number:
 
T & C | Privacy | Cancel Alerts
Powered by 4INFO. Standard Messaging Rates or other charges apply. To Opt-out text STOP to 4INFO (44636). For more information text HELP to 4INFO (44636). Contact your carrier for more details.
Advertisement
Games
News
Videos
Features
Previews
Reviews
New Releases
Trailers
Cheats
TV Shows
Attack of the Show
X-Play
Comic-Con 09
E3 2009
Ninja Warrior
The International Sexy Ladies Show
Web Soup
2 Months. 2 Million.
Movies That Don't Suck
G4 Underground
The Chaser's War on Everything
Duty Free TV
Heroes
LOST
Cops
Cheaters
 
Whacked Out Videos
Human Wrecking Balls
Code Monkeys
Totally Outrageous Behavior
Arrested Development
Unbeatable Banzuke
Freaky
Trigger Happy TV
Wired for Sex
Cheat!
Spaceballs
Super Big Product Fun Show
Tech TV Vault
 
Schedule »
Channel Finder »
Web Shows
Sessler's Soapbox
The MMO Report
Fresh Ink Online
First 15
The Electric Playground
Freestyle 101
Videos
Video Index
Viral Videos
Video Game Trailers
Tech TV Vault
 
Multiplex
PS3 Portal
Wii Portal
VOD
Podcasts
Mobile
Events
Comic-Con
E3 2009
GDC
DICE
CES
Tokyo Game Show
E3 2008
Community
Forums
Open Source with Neal Tiles
Cops 2.0
Video Viewer Mail