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Oracle ad hints at evil IBM/Informix scheme

'Error: this product requires DB2'

Oracle has answered IBM's announced $1 billion purchase of database management outfit Informix with a migration program for Informix users "who are searching for performance, scalability and database innovation not available with IBM DB2."

For a limited time only, Oracle says, special financial incentives will be awarded to the lucky few who want better security and less downtime than IBM customers get by availing themselves of the company's SafeSwitch Program.

"IBM bought Informix. The question is whether they can buy you," a provocative marketing slogan reads.

"How is IBM going to support you? Does DB2 even have any migration tools? And realistically how good is DB2 support on Sun, HP or Compaq hardware anyway?" the advert frets.

We're also urged to "eliminate....worries about IBM's plans for Informix by moving to Oracle, the most scalable and highly available database in the world."

Apparently, there's no way of knowing what diabolical plans IBM has in store for its new acquisition. Might it be tempted, say, to rig Informix software to require DB2?

Heaven forbid. But if you do find yourself stuck in a jam like that a year or two hence, you can't say Oracle didn't try to help you. ®

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IBM buys Informix for $1bn

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