When the iPlayer first launched the BBC was criticised for producing versions that only worked with Microsoft's Windows XP and which used Microsoft's digital rights management (DRM) system to enforce viewing restrictions.

BBC: iPlayer now available on Mac

Hard to believe, but it was 10 years ago today, October 25, 2001, that Microsoft introduced Windows XP, an operating system so successful that users today promise to switch away from it only when you pry their cold, dead fingers off their mouse.

FORBES: Happy 10th Birthday, Windows XP! Why We Still Love You

In addition to XP, Microsoft is also launching Xbox, its entree into the profitable games console market, and .

BBC: XP launch crucial for Microsoft