Windows Vista came and passed-by. Windows Xp still retains a large userbase. Most users were reluctant to make the switch to Vista. But with the emergence of Windows 7, is there a possibility of the end of an era?
It has been eight years since Microsoft released Windows Xp. Though users were reluctant initially, Windows Xp gained a userbase like no other in Microsoft’s history. Microsoft has officially discontinued it, but Windows Xp continues to be used more than ever.
Will Windows 7 succeed in convincing Windows Xp loyalists? This is difficult to guess. Online surveys indicate that a large number of users still use Windows Xp. They are reluctant to upgrade to Vista for three main reasons–Windows Xp does its job well, Vista doesn’t have any features that justify the switch and Vista does have issues with drivers and software.
When Vista was finally released years after initial schedule, it failed to attract users. Many users didn’t upgrade due to its higher system requirements. Vista’s eye candy and gimmicks failed to entice users. However, this is not the case with Windows 7. Overall, Windows 7 has received a very positive response.
Users who have already used or tested Windows 7 are very enthusiastic about it. And even more users are willing to switch to Windows 7 once it becomes available for sale in October this year. Windows 7 has received only a few negative reviews from users and reviewers.
However, we can expect some users to remain loyal to Windows Xp even after Windows 7 becomes available. This brings up an interesting question–When will Windows Xp become completely obsolete?
Officially, Windows Xp is now obsolete. Microsoft discontinued Windows Xp on 30 June 2008 and ended support on 14 April 2009. However, Windows Xp is still alive and well. Microsoft allows OEMs to ship Windows Xp downgrade discs with Windows Vista and will do the same after Windows 7 is released. This means Windows Xp will be available until at least 2011.
Windows Xp will be completely phased out after 8 April 2014. After this date, Microsoft will end all support for Windows Xp and no longer release security fixes. However, Windows Xp will definitely continue to be used for many more years to come. There are bound to be some loyal users who will prefer nothing else.