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Do you believe Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) has truly changed its tune when it comes to embracing open source?  According to a Microsoft press release today, the company is, "implementing four new interoperability principles and corresponding actions across its high-volume business products: (1) ensuring open connections; (2) promoting data portability; (3) enhancing support for industry standards; and (4) fostering more open engagement with customers and the industry, including open source communities."  Do you buy it?

Is Microsoft really going to change its position on sharing information and opening its doors?  I'm not sure.  It doesn't sound like something the Microsoft we all know would do, but perhaps the powers that be at Microsoft have realized that they need to jump on the open source bandwagon Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) is leading before it's too late.  Is Microsoft now saying, "If Google's doing it, then we better do it, too"?

According to the Associated Press, regulators from the European Union responded to Microsoft's announcement with reservations saying, "The Commission would welcome any move toward genuine interoperability. Nonetheless, the Commission notes that today's announcement follows at least four similar statements by Microsoft in the past on the importance of interoperability." 

The Associated Press also got a quote from Matt Rosoff, an analyst for the research group Directions on Microsoft who said, "I don't think the company's suddenly about to get open-source religion.  This is an attempt to stave off further antitrust and unfair competition complaints in the EU, particularly related to Office."

I guess Microsoft must be serious.  They have a new "Microsoft Interoperability Website."  But seriously, what do you think of Microsoft's announcement?