Microsoft has announced that it may stop selling its flagship Windows Vista operating system just as soon as the eagerly awaited Windows 7 becomes available. Company representatives admitted they were “still not sure” if manufacturers will still be able to sell Vista once the new operating system officially hits the shelves.
Is Microsoft Ditching Vista?
Still Love XP? Run it on Windows 7!
It is being reported that Microsoft’s new operating system, Windows 7, will feature an “XP mode” that Mimics the look and feel of Windows XP. The feature will allow applications designed specifically for XP to run inside a virtual “box” in Windows 7. Appearance wise, it will simply look like the program is running on Windows XP, but behind-the-scenes there’s actually a lot going on.
Microsoft Introduces Windows 7 Starter Edition
As Microsoft Windows 7 nears final release, there is a growing consensus among reviewers and industry pundits that the new operating system will correct many of mistakes the company made with Windows Vista. The beta version has already received solid reviews, and even staunch Microsoft critics are conceding that 7 is a big step in the right direction. But ironically, the recent release of Windows 7 “Starter Edition” could actually threaten the viability of the full operating system when it is finally released.
More Makeovers for Windows 7
Even before its official release, Microsoft’s Windows 7 operating system continues to receive upgrades and “makeovers” designed to improve both its appearance and performance. Last month, Microsoft released nearly 40 bug fixes and updates for the new OS. Some of these fixes were purely cosmetic, for example affecting the way that opened windows and programs reacted to one another. But other improvements were much more serious, affecting the underlying structure of the operating system.
Windows 7 Has Lots of “Off Switches”
It’s no big secret that many Web experts have considered Microsoft’s Vista operating system to be a bit of a bust. The heavier, more processor intensive Vista disappointed many, especially when compared to Windows XP. As for their part, Microsoft continues to insist that Vista has been a success, though the company seems to be rushing to roll out their new operating system, Windows 7, as quickly as possible.
Windows Vista Gets Another Kick in The Face
Since it’s released in January 2007, Windows Vista still hasn’t managed to gather a loyal following. Vista has faced disappointment and rejection from both individual users and companies world wide!
Software Developers Steering Clear of Vista in favor of XP, Linux and Mac
While it is common knowledge that Microsoft Vista has had its share of problems, a new report by Evans Data shows that less than 10% of major software developers are creating applications for Microsoft’s Vista operating system this year. To make matters even worse, the report demonstrates that nearly 50% of the same developers are currently working on software applications designed specifically for Windows XP.
New Research: Windows XP SP3 Is 10% Faster
Performance tests indicate that Windows XP Service Pack 3 runs many applications 10 times faster than XP computers without the software update. InformationWeek.com is reporting that XP Service Pack 3 demonstrated a significance performance boost on benchmark tests.
Windows XP Refuses to Go Quietly
Despite the fact that Microsoft has spared no expense in promoting its Vista operating system, Windows XP refuses to go away. Computer retailers are finding new and creative ways to continue selling the XP operating system beyond its June 30 deadline.
Users Petition Microsoft for Continued Support of Windows XP
Several petitions are going around online for Microsoft to continue selling and supporting Windows XP. One petition, hosted at InfoWorld.com, reportedly has more than 10,000 signatures so far, and there are many others located on blogs and sites all across the Web.
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