Why do many computer manufacturers provide free software whose market price exceeds the computer itself?
Why do many computer manufacturers provide free software whose market price exceeds the computer itself? Nowadays, when people buy a new computer, they will definitely find that the hard disk contains not only the latest version of the operating system, but also the latest version of word processing, spreadsheets, slides, e-mail, music and photos software, and of course the latest version of virus protection software. Why do manufacturers give away so much software for free? Software users are very concerned about product compatibility. Imagine if scientists or historians collaborate on a project, and if they all use the same word processing program, the task will be much simpler. Similarly, if the business supervisor and accountant use the same financial software, it will be much easier for her to file taxes. Another related consideration is that many programs, such as Microsoft Word, are somewhat troublesome to master. People who are familiar with this software are often reluctant to learn other similar software, even if the latter is objectively more useful. This means that the benefits of owning and using specific software will increase with the increase of users. This unusual relationship has brought immeasurable advantages to the most popular program manufacturers and made it difficult for new programs to enter the market. After realizing this model, Intuition Company provided its personal financial software Quicken to computer manufacturers for free. Of course, computer manufacturers are willing to install this program for their own computers first, because it increases the attractiveness of the new machine in the eyes of customers. Quicken quickly became the standard of personal financial procedures. By giving away free software, Intuition Company promoted the market and created a huge demand for backup products, such as the upgraded version and subsequent version of Quicken. As a result, intuitive personal tax software has also become the standard of tax planning procedures. Encouraged by this successful example, other software developers joined in and demanded a piece of the action. It is rumored that some software developers even pay computer manufacturers to install their own software.