PHP fluffed to suck data from Microsoft's cloud

embrace, extend, and extinguish

if there were reasonable signs that Microsoft has changed from an anti-competitive company to a competitive one, then this could be looked at as just another tool. But, since Microsoft continues its standard business practices of spreading FUD, purchasing contracts they'd otherwise lose, and ram rodding their proprietary software down the throats of everyone in their way, this just looks like another EEE tool. You know the type, get them to used the tool and when there's enough movement, reel it in so it only runs or is only updated on the Windows platform and Microsoft controlled tools and API's.

First give us extensive proof they are willing to compete on all platforms and only then should developers even think of glancing their way. Otherwise, it is all about herding you back to Windows and controlling what choices you have.

Stay away from AZURE until you ARE SURE your freedom of choice is ASSURED.