The battle for Web developers has long-term significance for the whole industry. Today's winners will have a huge headstart as this segment skyrockets. And the long-term winners in any market get customers to buy their products and become familiar with them. Then they build customer support into strong market share.
Some combatants are more interested in the court of public opinion.
Microsoft battles on the PR front. But, more importantly, it's been gaining share with the businesses actually doing Web development. This focus on the customer will build a long-term asset for Microsoft. Yet, by stopping that slide in February, JavaSoft remains competitive and an option for customers. IBM is MIA IBM is the real mystery.