Intology – Intelligent Technology News
Computers Technology Internet Arts Business Science Sports

Microsoft has extended critical support for Windows XP till 2014. This was announced in a letter to customers by Bill Veghte, Senior Vice President Microsoft.

OEMs will be able to supply systems with Windows XP preloaded as a ‘downgrade’ until January 31, 2009 while critical update and support will be provided till 2014.

According to Veghte:

Windows Vista is a very significant step forward, but our customers have made it clear to us that they want broader support for devices and applications in order to enjoy the overall experience.
During the last year, we have worked diligently with our hardware and software partners to improve compatibility to remove the barriers that prevent users from taking advantage of the important advancements Windows Vista delivers. It has been a year of exciting and critical progress.

He acknowledged there have been compatibility problems between Vista and peripherals manufacturers and promises lessons have been learned.

The company also pledged support for Windows 7 which will be released approximately 3 years after the January 2007 release date for Vista.

Veghte said:

Our approach with Windows 7 is to build off the same core architecture as Windows Vista so the investments you and our partners have made in Windows Vista will continue to pay off with Windows 7. Our goal is to ensure the migration process from Windows Vista to Windows 7 is straightforward.