It’s tricky though, because they will compete hard on some things if they sense it’s vital. Look at SQL Server, 2005 was probably the most improvement I have ever seen in a single ms release. But once they establish a lead they crank down the dial and cruise.

Indeed, IE was a typical example too. And WinXP. Once they have the lead, innovation goes on the slow burner.

Excel, in particular, was famously a force of greatness to be reckoned with.