New Download System from Microsoft?

Today I went to download the new SQL Assessment Add-in for Visio and I noticed something that I’d not seen before – Microsoft is making registration optional for some downloads. I’m used to seeing “Registration Required for this Download” (at which point I usually just close the browser) but this is the first time I’ve seen this opt-in system. It’s apparently pretty common since a Google search for site:microsoft.com/downloads “Registration Required for this Download” returns 378 rows.

What I found odd is that this is the same color scheme as the “Registration Required for this Download” box that you can find with this google search.

Anyway, check out the Instructions on the SQL Assessment Add-in for Visio 2007 (a download with the Registration Suggested “feature”):

This download offers you the benefits of registering with Microsoft. Click the Continue button near the top of this page to register. After you have gone through the registration process, you will be returned to this page to begin the download

I love it – “the benefits of registering with Microsoft” lol. When you click “Continue”, then you are given a choice: