According to The Recorder, Microsoft and Linex have put their differences aside to come together against new rules against software contracts announced by The American Law Institute.

One of the most controversial parts of those rules is one stating that companies must guarantee consumers that there are no hidden flaws in their product. Some lawyers are saying this could lead to liability issues because most software is inherently flawed.

"It creates an unrealistic standard and a lot of litigation," said Mark Radcliffe, a DLA piper lawyer who's worked to oppose the rules proposed in mid-May. "Any project that has Microsoftand Linux on the same side, you know there's something wrong."

The Principles of Law of Software Contracts, as they are called, are not law, but do serve to guide judges who often cite them in decisions.