From the Dark Side--NVIDIA Throws In with Microsoft

From a Business Wire press release, "NVIDIA announced it developed and licensed enabling 3D features to Microsoft Corp. for their new DirectX 8.0 3D application program interface (API). NVIDIA contributions were in the areas of programmable vertex shaders, programmable pixel shaders, and rect/tri-patch support for high order surfaces. These features allow software content creators to use more elaborate artwork and flexible 3D rendering techniques in their applications and games. 'As a result of these new features, DirectX 8.0 will enable a new level of 3D graphics applications, and new GPUs, including NVIDIA's, bringing new 3D rendering and shading techniques to life,' said Chris Jones, vice president of the Windows Client Division at Microsoft. 'NVIDIA has been a great help in developing DirectX 8.0 as it is a leader in graphics technology." [NVIDIA produces the hottest 3D graphics chips for Wintels and has been rumored to be interested in the Mac market.--Bill]