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Microsoft's Xbox DRM reversal not the first: 12 tech mulligans

Microsoft's backpedaling on DRM restrictions for its upcoming Xbox One is not the first reversal from a tech giant. Here are 12 others.

Josh Lowensohn Former Senior Writer
Josh Lowensohn joined CNET in 2006 and now covers Apple. Before that, Josh wrote about everything from new Web start-ups, to remote-controlled robots that watch your house. Prior to joining CNET, Josh covered breaking video game news, as well as reviewing game software. His current console favorite is the Xbox 360.
Josh Lowensohn
Microsoft's November target date for the Xbox One at E3 last week.
Microsoft's November target date for the Xbox One at E3 last week. Sarah Tew/CNET

Microsoft changed its controversial stance on always-on connectivity and game DRM on Wednesday, a reversal that comes after more than a week of harsh criticism from consumers, press and especially competitors.

The move comes just a few months before the console is set to hit store shelves, and is widely-viewed as reactionary. Rival Sony, which priced and further detailed its PlayStation 4 console at E3 last week, made waves for not having DRM on its games, as well as coming in $100 less than Microsoft's $499 Xbox One.

Of course, it's not the first reversal by Microsoft following backlash, nor is Microsoft alone. Nearly every technology company -- big and small -- has changed stances on products or policy at some point. Click on the slideshow below to get started on 12 notable tech take backs in recent years.

The dirty dozen: 12 tech mulligans (photos)

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