Windows XP to Remain Available Until 2010
Just when you thought Windows Vista was taking over the desktop (or at least that is what Microsoft wants you to believe), the folks in Redmond, Washington have agreed to postpone the Summer 2008 sunset of Windows XP until 2010. Microsoft cited the Asus Eee PC (and other similar low powered cheap laptops) as the reason behind XP’s extended life. While that might be the party line, I suspect it’s not the only reason Microsoft is keeping XP around until 2010.
What’s the unofficial party line for keeping XP alive?
I don’t doubt that the new interest in low powered laptops like the Asus Eee PC is a good reason to keep XP available. I doubt the sales figures of these under powered novelty PCs are large enough to get Microsoft’s attention. Perhaps the lack luster Vista sales have a little to do with Microsoft’s decision?
It’s no secret that Vista sales are driven mostly by new computer sales because Vista is pre-installed. Only the most dedicated technologist ran out and “bought” a copy of Vista when it hit store shelves. I might even go so far to say that new computer sales are also driving up XP sales numbers. I’ve heard of more than a few people buying new computers and a new copy of XP to install over the pre-installed Vista OS. Hey, it’s a win-win for Microsoft. Someone sells a new computer and you can rack up one sale of Vista, and in most cases, a sale of XP as well. Could it all be part of Microsoft’s master plan?
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Filed under: Tech Commentary
I know I was grateful I could still pick an XP-Powered PC from Dell recently. As a photographer, I had discussed how dissatisfied other photogs were with Vista color management and high rez color tools – so I stuck with XP.
I hear you. I recently helped a friend get a new PC. I recommended Dell specifically because I knew that the customize option allowed him to have XP pre-installed rather than Vista.
Thanks for the comment Sandy.
With Vista being the way it is currently this news makes me very happy.
XP will still be with us I believe after that too, as today we still have people actually using Windows 98 (trust me, I have seen). There is always software for XP to keep it live that provides extensions and tweaks to get the best out of it.
Thanks for the comment.
A friend of mine is die-hard supporter of Windows 98. He claims it does all he needs therefore he sees no reason to upgrade. I should point out also that he is a technical person and not an average computer user. He knows his stuff but just doesn’t have any compelling reason to upgrade. While I don’t agree with holding out like this, it does bring up the point that many of Microsoft’s operating systems live on well beyond their availability. I should point out, however, that I recently upgraded my laptop to Vista SP1 (Home Premium). I have to admit, the negative Vista press is so far off the mark it’s not even funny. I’m very happy with my Vista upgrade and I have yet to see anything negative about it. I’ve started asking the “Vista haters” to tell exactly what about Vista is so terrible. Most of them can only answer with, “Well, that’s what I hear.” As the saying goes — ignorance is bliss.