Windows XP: Going Off the Market?

With Windows Vista's popularity still on the low side, Microsoft is trying anything they can think of to boost their new operating system's sales. Unfortunately, they have found one method that most of us will have a hard time accepting. On June 31, 2008, Microsoft will basically "kill off" their famous operating system of Windows XP, taking it off the market all together.

This fate was expected, since XP was originally released in 2001, but with the push of Vista, the loss will be even harder on Windows users. Windows XP users can still continue to run the operating system for as long as they want, but product support from Microsoft will end on April 14, 2009. That's also when it will become even harder to buy the XP operating system.

So, why would Microsoft remove Windows XP from the market? Well, like most software corporations, Microsoft is out to make a profit, while also providing the newest and most up to date software to their customers. Since Vista is their latest version of Windows, they are trying to make it the most popular operating system on the market. Therefore, they are removing the older versions of Windows from the market to make more room for Vista.

Also, larger enterprises have been slow in transitioning their computer systems from Windows XP to Windows Vista. Microsoft hopes that by removing Windows XP, those larger organizations will finally make the move over to Vista.

For those of you who are looking at buying a new computer and want Windows XP installed on it, you'll want to grab a copy before June 2008. Just giving you a heads up!

~ Jack William

Microsoft Extends XP's Life

As you may remember, a couple weeks ago, we ran an article in the newsletter that basically said Microsoft is cutting off Windows XP completely starting on June 30, 2008. I know most of you read that article, because I received tons of e-mails from all of you with comments, concerns and even some complaints. Unfortunately, there wasn't much I could say to console you, because I had the same feelings about the situation. But, after today, you may change your mind. Keep reading to find out why!

On April 3, 2008, Microsoft announced that they are going to prolong the life of XP for just a little while longer. Yep, you read that right! They are going to extend the license for the Windows XP Home version until at least June 30, 2010. That's a whole two more years! Now, there is a slight catch, but trust me, this is still good news. From here on out, Microsoft is only going to promote XP for ultra-low-cost personal computers (ULCPCs), which are now just starting to show up in the marketplace. So, basically, if you're looking into buying a new computer and you want XP, you may want to consider getting a ULCPC.

As for the rest of you, there's still good news! Microsoft also made the announcement that they are sticking to their word as far as technical support goes. They will continue to provide free mainstream support until April 2009 and if you have the extended support option, you will be covered until April 2014. I don't know about you, but that makes me feel quite a bit better! I know everything with XP happened pretty suddenly and it sometimes feels like Microsoft is pushing us into using Windows Vista, but now you can rest a little easier. Well, at least for the next couple of years. Enjoy it!

~ Erin

XP Sales Finished

We here at WorldStart have been telling you for months now that Microsoft would be stopping sales of their Windows XP operating system on June 30, 2008. Obviously, that day has come and gone and unfortunately, Microsoft kept their promise. Some of you may have heard rumors about them extending XP's retail life, but Microsoft senior vice president Bill Veghte confirmed they have stopped shipments to retailers and manufacturers alike. Keep reading for the full scoop!

While you will no longer be able to buy a licensed copy of Windows XP, Microsoft is still allowing all computer makers to sell their computers with Windows XP pre-installed. Even the largest companies have this option. Also, several manufacturers (including Dell and HP) will continue to sell the XP operating system as a downgrade option from Windows Vista. Veghte himself even said that was a good option for computer users. You can still use XP on a new PC if you need it and you can then switch over to Vista when you're ready.

Microsoft is also aware that major retailers will need to sell all of their XP inventory before it's actually shut off for good. So, if you're lucky, you might find a couple copies still lying around for the next few weeks. All in all, Veghte also wanted to remind everyone that you will still be able to receive XP support until April 14, 2009 and extended support until April 8, 2014. Yes, it's sad to see Windows XP go, but it's good to know you still have a few options when it comes to getting your hands on a copy. Just giving you a heads up!

~ Erin