We first saw the release of Microsoft’s best operation system, of course Windows XP in late 2001. However, Microsoft seems to think that XP is coming to the end of its life cycle as they are stopping producing as of the end of January 2008, this will include all type of the operating system, including media centre.

As of the 31st of January, all computer manufacturers (Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo to name a few) will no longer be able to purchase XP licences to install the operation system on their new machines, with a cut off date of the 30th June, 2008.

This will give way to Microsoft’s newest operation system, Windows Vista. Vista at present seems to be getting a mixed response from its users. Computer manufacturers seem to be in a bit of a dilemma, they want to be selling machines with an operating system that a high percentage of users want. In essence, PC manufacturers would ideally want to sell a computer with a Vista operation system or alternatively a computer with a XP operating system, giving customers the choice.

However, manufacturers have been clever and seem to have found a way around this potential pit fall, the Vista “downgrade” license. For example Dell will be taking advantage of a licence option under Vista Business and Vista Ultimate that allows PC manufacturers to install XP under the Vista licence. It’s a Vista licence that can be used for XP. Therefore Dell are able to install Windows XP Pro on is Latitude, OptiPlex, and Precision machines for free (as they are used primarily for business use) and for a fee on its Vostro and XPS gaming machines (used for consumers and small businesses).

Even through Windows XP seems to be coming to the send, Steve Ballmer the boss at Microsoft said that the life cycle could be extended is enough customers demand it.