Microsoft allows downgrades to XP for PC makers.

Gary · Sep 24, 2007, 10:25:15

I noticed this article on ZDnet UK.
http://news.zdnet.co.uk/software/0,1000000121,39289592,00.htm
It seems that Microsoft is still allowing pc manufacturers to use XP as a viable alternative to Vista partly because of its graphics and memory needs and allowing downgrades to users, this seems particularly important to business users even though vista was pushed out to the business sector almost a year ago.

Rik · Sep 24, 2007, 10:28:44

I wonder whether this will extend beyond the current January 31, 'expiry' for XP, Gary?

Gary · Sep 24, 2007, 10:43:40

Well Microsoft want that to stop that but the demand is there amongst the companies so with XP still making up a considerable amount of their sales revenue, see this link about that. http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,134908-page,1/article.html In the light of this I'm not so sure they will adhere to that date Rik. There is an interesting Blog which gives a little glimpse inside the Microsoft machine Rik, here is the link. http://minimsft.blogspot.com/ it makes good reading but how long it will go on for I don't know, the person is already flying close to the edge.

Rik · Sep 24, 2007, 11:00:56

Very interesting. The American work ethos is strange. I can remember my contacts at Adobe would go on vacation, but take a notebook and log in every day just to keep an eye on things.

Gary · Sep 24, 2007, 11:12:22

Indeed their ethic is odd, I find it interesting that Microsoft see a big chunk of revenue still coming in from XP, I know a few Microsoft die hards who have moved to mac's for the advantages of processing power without the overheads of Vista and dual boot if they need windows using XP Pro, one actually works for Microsoft. I myself am considering this, wife allowing of course

Rik · Sep 24, 2007, 11:17:03

Wives can be a big restriction on dual-booting.

Gary · Sep 24, 2007, 11:20:27

Quote from: Rik on Sep 24, 2007, 11:17:03
Wives can be a big restriction on dual-booting.

MoHux · Sep 24, 2007, 17:47:20

(dual-booting!!)

Rik · Sep 24, 2007, 17:51:25

But wouldn't a dual-boot require the use of both feet simultaneously?

MoHux · Sep 24, 2007, 17:54:29

Bend over ....... we'll find out!!

Rik · Sep 24, 2007, 18:00:21

I'm bending, but I can't see your feet from here. Sue, otoh, is sneaking up with a strange look on her face!!

Gary · Sep 24, 2007, 19:51:30

For the love of money run Rik Run

Lance · Sep 24, 2007, 20:04:50

Quote from: Rik on Sep 24, 2007, 18:00:21
I'm bending, but I can't see your feet from here. Sue, otoh, is sneaking up with a strange look on her face!!

Probably hoping there isn't going to be an escape of wind!

Rik · Sep 25, 2007, 00:08:34

You may just have a point, Lance.

Noreen · Sep 28, 2007, 10:33:25

Windows XP Direct OEM and retail license availability extended to 6/30/2008 effective today. Previously, the OEM and retail license cut-off date was January 31, 2008.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/lifecycle/default.mspx

Rik · Sep 28, 2007, 10:36:25

Interesting and, imo, good news, Noreen. Thanks for posting.

Noreen · Sep 28, 2007, 10:57:23

I think so too. If I decide to get a new laptop I'd like to get one with XP if I can.

Gary · Sep 28, 2007, 11:01:55

I thought they would have to do that, we talked about the probability at the beginning of this thread Rik, we also have XP sp3 to look forward to which really is just a bunch of bug fixes I think, but I wonder if they will keep on schedule for that now considering the demand for xp still?

Gary · Sep 28, 2007, 11:03:58

Quote from: Noreen on Sep 28, 2007, 10:57:23
I think so too. If I decide to get a new laptop I'd like to get one with XP if I can.

Lap tops are the ones that seem to suffer with Vista's power requirements the most Noreen, but that could all change with SP1 I suppose, but most online pc builders should be able to equip you with XP it seems now

Rik · Sep 28, 2007, 11:05:16

As you know, Gary, I've long had the feeling that Vista has become a bit like Me was - effectively an interim release. If others, particularly business customers, are responding in the same way, it would make sense of the M$ move, and would suggest that SP3 will gain extra impetus.

Time will tell.

Gary · Sep 28, 2007, 11:23:11

Quote from: Rik on Sep 28, 2007, 11:05:16
As you know, Gary, I've long had the feeling that Vista has become a bit like Me was - effectively an interim release. If others, particularly business customers, are responding in the same way, it would make sense of the M$ move, and would suggest that SP3 will gain extra impetus.

Time will tell.

Well Vista's replacement is meant to be in 2009 and I can't see them making the error they did with bringing Vista out so late after XP, also if Vista sales do not pick up, and with the demand for XP going strong late 2009 should be about right for a new OS.

Gary · Sep 28, 2007, 11:27:17

Quote from the BBC for manufactures concerning the XP date extension. "The XP date change applies to retailers and other manufacturers who sell Microsoft products. Independent firms that use Windows XP when installing and maintaining computers and networks for businesses can continue to offer it as an option until 30 January 2009"

Rik · Sep 28, 2007, 11:30:40

I also noted the reference to maintaining sales for lower powered machines...

Rik · Sep 28, 2007, 11:31:37

Quote from: Killhippie on Sep 28, 2007, 11:23:11
with the demand for XP going strong late 2009 should be about right for a new OS.

That's my gut feeling.

mogden · Sep 28, 2007, 14:40:05

Quote from: Killhippie on Sep 28, 2007, 11:23:11
Late 2009 should be about right for a new OS.

Here's hoping it finally has a robust file system and registry. Bought SWMBO a laptop with Vista and it's - er - strange. Like doing some jobs incredibly fast and taking an age to do 'simpler' tasks like file copying.

Also the wireless keyboard and mouse will only work if they're plugged into one of the USB ports - use the wrong one and she don' work. But the Skype phone is fine in any of them.

I do love the file explorer and the interface however!