I have been told some crazy things in the past, and I have been told some out-right lies. Sometimes these stories even seem to make sense. Well, that seems to be the situation with Windows XP. For about a year now or ever since Windows Vista became so popular in the news, I have heard of several different timelines for Microsoft to end product support on the Windows XP operating system. Some came from reliable sources, some were told to me by clients and others were told directly to me by sales members of various stores. Regardless of where the stories came from, they all included different dates that the support would end. These dates ranged from 2008, on up to 2018.
Upon comparing some of the more believable ones, one of these stories stood out to me because it is currently being told by many tech stores. The story says Windows XP home edition support would end by 2008, while Windows XP Media edition support would continue on through 2015. While this is simply not true, it is believable.
So, I went to my local "technology resellers" (stores) and asked a few questions as a "novice consumer looking for a new Windows XP machine." After that, I went online and looked at all of the offered machines.
“Upon researching machines offered nationwide online and in stores locally, I found Windows XP Media edition machines out-numbering Windows Home & Pro 8 to 1!”
In fact, it is hard to locate a powerful, 19” laptop without Windows XP Media. The more I searched sites like Alienware, Toshiba, Acer, Asus and others like them (high quality and worth buying), the more I was amazed at the number of XP Media edition machines in stores and online. All of which seem to be coupled with a wide screen.
What gives? Why have they done this? I have found very few users who like a wide screen for surfing or working. Yes, they are great for games, media viewing and publishing – but they don’t work for all things.
So, when you are in these stores shopping for a new laptop or desktop for your home or office, request a XP home or XP Pro edition machine. Microsoft is here for you now and they will be tomorrow and beyond, as well. And when you hear these stories out there – TELL THEM ALL VERSIONS OF XP WILL BE SUPPORTED THROUGH 2010 BY MICROSOFT!
And make sure your new machine is Windows Vista Premium Ready (not capable). That way, you can take your time now to learn Windows Vista while you continue to enjoy Windows XP!
