Microsoft says XP netbooks die on October 22
There's always China
Microsoft has reminded OEMs that as of October 22, it will forbid them from loading Windows XP on netbooks.
But if you still want one, there's always China.
In a Thursday blog post, Redmond underlined this October deadline, which was first laid down back April 2008. According to research outfit NPD, Microsoft says, 81 percent of US netbooks sold via retail come preloaded with Windows 7, but some OEMs are still punting Windows XP, which is available at a considerably cheaper price.
All About Microsoft blogger Mary Jo Foley says that according to sources, Microsoft sells XP at $15 a pop and Windows 7 at $50. Foley says that Win 7 netbooks have stayed cheap despite that price increase, but independent research suggests that the netbook has plateaued of late.
Microsoft has also reminded the world that on July 13 it will no longer offer support for Windows XP SP2. If you still want help with XP, you'll have to upgrade to SP3.
Windows XP is the operating system that Microsoft built before it started abusing PC buyers with Windows Vista. ®
COMMENTS
Linux anyone?
Given that most people use netbooks to pick up email., general surfing etc, wouldn't it be great if this was a cue for oem providers to reduce the price of the netbooks and provide a low cost (free) operating system that does the job adequately.
2GB? is that all?
I hate to tell you this, but you really shouldn't need 2GB to check your Gmail and type a letter.
Ask for a Windows refund
So far, I've been able to get Amazon to refund the cost of Windows on both netbooks I've purchased from them in the US.
Re: Linux anyone?
I'm sold on Linux. I wouldn't even mind "bring your own OS" models.
Most people expect windows, and many manufacturers only cater to the majority, unfortunately.
Ubuntu Linux Netbook Remix
Runs faster than Windows XP/Vista/7 on netbooks, looks easier on the eye due to being optimised for low resolution screens. A better experience.
You can buy netbooks & laptops with no O/S from some trade sellers, however often cheaper to get a big brand version with Windows, and then wipe Windows.
