Your Views: Internet Explorer 8

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Microsoft wants you back! Some 20 per cent of internet users have now jumped off the Microsoft ship and are happily surfing away on alternatives such as Firefox.

With the release of Internet Explorer 8, Microsoft has addressed many of the issues that plagued previous versions and added some potentially very useful features – enough to be praised in our review as Microsoft’s best browser release for a very long time.

However, judging by our inbox, Microsoft still has work to do when it comes to converting the internet hearts and minds of our readers."I will not use IE 8.0!", said Martin, adding that he wasn’t even interested in taking a look, which seems a bit harsh.

"Most definitely staying with Firefox, not only through loyalty but practicality and aesthetically," Vincent told us.

John meanwhile simply said, “No, I am going to stick with Opera.”

One of the issues with IE8 is that it will never be available for Mac, though would that make a difference? As Terry said, “I use a Mac, so no IE for me, but then I wouldn't use it even if it was available except as a very last resort.”

Jean-Paul felt the same, saying: “I do not see any reason to move back to Microsoft software when I've been able to get rid of their stifling embrace. IE8 or 9 or X won't make me change."

The negativity continued from Jerzy who observed: “A disaster. Many sites don’t recognise it. Compatibility option is a joke! Steer clear unless you have time to waste!!!”

Some of course, have to consider IE for work purposes but even that considered, responses weren’t too enthusiastic. “Unfortunately, being a web designer, I have to have them all installed", grumbled Wayne. "I like Firefox for its developer plugins, and Chrome for its clean interface. IE8 is just an unwelcome necessity.”

Oh dear.

In fact, we received just a single voice of support for Microsoft, from another John, with his very sensible response: “One should always stick with what you know and what works for you. Internet Explorer Does work for me!”

And in case anyone thinks this sounds dull we’d like to point out that his email came with an all-yellow background. Pretty crazy huh?

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