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.
Dell and Hewlett-Packard are two of the major PC retailers that will continue to sell Windows XP beyond Microsoft’s June deadline. The companies have found ways to exploit loopholes in Microsoft’s licensing agreement to sell XP preloaded in new computers.
The reason why the “big box” distributors want to continue offering XP is simple: money. Windows Vista has received a lukewarm response from the market, and many individuals and companies are insisting upon continuing to use Windows XP when purchasing new computers.
The big PC retailers are taking advantage of a loophole clause in the Windows Vista terms of service which allows distributors to sell XP under what is known as a “downgrade license.” In practical terms, this means that Dell or Hewlett-Packard (to name two examples) will be allowed to legally install XP on some of their computers, most notably, models sold to business customers.
Hewlett-Packard has announced that they will continue selling XP through the 30th of July, 2009, though one has to believe they will extend this deadline too–if there is significant demand for XP beyond this date. Lenovo is also continuing to sell XP, but they are taking a different tact; the company will sell new computers preloaded with Microsoft Vista, but will include a Windows XP “recovery disk,” so that purchasers can elect to “roll back” their operating system if they desire.
The BBC is reporting that even Microsoft honcho Steve Ballmer admits that Windows XP could potentially be around a few more years if there is significant customer demand. Already, Microsoft has caved in to consumer pressure by extending the life span of Windows XP Home through 2010. The move is meant to apply to smaller computers and laptops which may have trouble running the more processor-hungry Vista.
With many consumers and businesses wary of upgrading to Vista, it appears that Windows XP could be with us for some time to come. On the one hand, this is a clear slap in the face to Vista, which is perceived by many as an unnecessary upgrade. But on the other hand, it is also a tribute to the elegance and stability of Windows XP, which has been around long enough now to firmly establish itself as a reliable operating system — some say the most reliable ever produced by the Microsoft camp.
Hi
It is a very great and good post about window xp and I like it. I think service pack II 2006 is best.
Comment by shopping cart — May 12, 2008 @ 12:23 am