Microsoft Apologizes for Vista's 'Ultimate Extras'

Windows Vista Ultimate director Barry Goffe has apologized for Vista's 'Ultimate Extras.'

What are 'Ultimate Extras'?

Ultimate Extras were initially a key selling point for the Ultimate edition of Windows Vista. When the operating system (OS) first launched in January of this year, four extras were released: Windows Hold'Em, 16 language packs, Secure Online Key Backup, and Windows BitLocker Drive Preparation Tool. But since then, the ultimate extras have fallen flat. In fact, not a single extra has been released since January, except for a beta version of a feature known as DreamScene. (Source: betanews.com)

Many customers have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of DreamScene, which will allow users to use videos as their Windows desktop background. Microsoft also has yet to release the remaining 20 language packs. (Source: pcmag.com)

The nosedive in Ultimate Extras has led many customers to believe that Microsoft has disappointed in its original plan to give Ultimate users access to cool and exclusive extras. Many users have expressed their discontent with numerous blog posts. These posts have accused Ultimate Extras of being nothing more than a sham and have called for responsibility from the Windows team. (Source: arstechnica.com)

On Monday, Goffe finally answered the concerned customers in a blog post. Besides apologizing for the extended delay in providing customers with a status update, Goffe also promised a change in the future, including the arrival of DreamScene and the remaining 20 language packs before the end of the summer.

"We also intend to deliver additional Extras in the future. In addition to Windows DreamScene and the remaining Language Packs, we plan to ship a collection of additional Windows Ultimate Extras over the next couple years that we are confident will delight our passionate Windows Vista Ultimate customers," Goffe vowed. (Source: windowsultimate.com)

Although it's a relief that the Windows team has acknowledged their slip up, it seems a bit premature to breathe a sigh of relief. Hopefully, the team is able to turn around the Ultimate Extras so that they don't end up becoming an 'Ultimate' disappointment.