Windows 7 machines could have XP or Vista downgrades
Windows XP really will never die. Computer firms look set to be allowed to continue selling new machines with XP for a year past the latest deadline and will also be able to offer Windows 7 > Vista downgrades.
The news came from a leaked memo detailing an arrangement between Microsoft and HP, though Microsoft has confirmed the set-up would apply to all computer manufacturers. The key point of the arrangement is that firms no longer have to have a firm order from a customer before getting a license from Microsoft to install an older edition of Windows. Instead they will be allowed to pre-order such licenses based on anticipated demand.
There are several reports that this deal will run until the end of April next year. However, Microsoft is not confirming or denying any specific dates.
The memo itself is primarily concerned with reminding manufacturers that Microsoft will withdraw most customer support for XP next week. Rather than encouraging manufacturers to use downgrading, it’s more of a warning that doing so could lead to some disappointed customers if they experience problems with the system.
There’s also some somewhat complicated news from the TechARP Web site, which broke the story of an apparent Microsoft scheme to allow manufacturers to offer cheap or free upgrades from Vista to Windows 7 upon its release, the idea being to get people buying computers now rather than waiting until Windows 7 is ready.
The site now says firms which offer a downgrade to XP will now be eligible to offer the Windows 7 upgrade to those customers. So, to recap, you’ll be able to buy a Vista machine now, but have Vista replaced with XP (possibly for an extra fee), then get XP replaced by Windows 7 later on at a reduced rate.
Do you get the impression some people might be trying to avoid Vista?
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