Dell to defy XP deadline

Posted on 28 Apr 2008 at 12:00

Dell is set to exploit a loophole in Microsoft's Windows Vista licences to continue selling PCs with Windows XP, after the official cut-off date.

Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer confirmed last week that XP will no longer be available after 30 June.

But Dell will exercise the "downgrade rights" in the Business and Ultimate editions of Vista to install XP Professional. HP and other PC makers are said to be considering similar action.

Microsoft also has something to gain, as "downgrading" machines from Vista to XP will allow it to count each shipment as a Vista installation, thereby buoying its less-than-stellar sales figures.

Dell said the programme will run just as long as Microsoft provides the downgrade option. It has yet to confirm whether it will charge extra to install XP.

Author: Simon Aughton

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Software Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.