Windows XP Deadline: Extended Again

Microsoft has once again given Windows XP a reprieve, reportedly extending the cut-off date to system builders -- smaller shops and computer dealers who build PCs to order -- from January 31, 2009 to May 31, 2009. According to a Microsoft spokeswoman, the company will likely increase the cut-off date again.

Despite Microsoft's claims that Windows Vista has sold well, consumers are still reacting badly to it and demand for Vista-XP downgrades is still strong. (Source: crn.com)

Downgrading from Windows Vista to Windows XP is still a popular method for users purchasing new systems with the older operating system preinstalled. Some estimates show that more than a third of all new PCs are downgraded from Vista to XP. (Source: bbc.co.uk)

Only 10% of 700 business executives that were recently surveyed by the Information Technology Industry Council and Sunbelt Software said their companies were using Windows Vista. A survey released in the UK showed that only 4% of businesses were using Windows Vista on workplace systems, while 35% said they were "not yet interested" in Vista and 58% said they were still using Windows XP. (Source: informationweek.com)

As long as custom computer builders have remaining Windows XP Professional licenses, they will be able to sell it for weeks or months after the most recent deadline.

In early October, Microsoft added six months to the deadline for larger computer makers (original equipment manufacturers or OEMs) such as Dell and Hewlett-Packard to July 31, 2009.

Many of the early problems with Windows Vista have been fixed, but there is still much resistance from consumers and many expect Microsoft to continue extending the deadline for Windows XP until Windows 7 is released.

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