Is Microsoft's Windows XP Starter Edition a Joke or a Strategic Move?

In summary, Microsoft is offering a stripped down version of Windows XP for $36 USD in an attempt to counter Linux and piracy in Asia. The limitations of this version include only being able to run three programs at a time, a maximum resolution of 800x600, no PC-to-PC networking support, no printer sharing support, and no multiple user accounts. This move has been met with criticism and skepticism, as it may not be a viable option for consumers in the Asian market where free operating systems like FreeBSD are popular. However, it may help combat software piracy as it is not a desirable product to pirate. The possibility of circumventing the limited features is unlikely as it appears they have been intentionally removed. Overall, this news has been
  • #1
dduardo
Staff Emeritus
1,905
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This has to be the funniest Microsoft news I've heard in a while:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5670541/

Microsoft is trying to counter Linux and piracy in Asia by offering a stripped down version of Windows XP for $36 USD.

The limitations of this version of Windows include:

Only 3 programs can run at the same time
800x600 maximum resolution
No PC-to-PC networking support
No printer sharing support
No multiple user accounts.
 
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  • #2
dduardo said:
This has to be the funniest Microsoft news I've heard in a while:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5670541/

Microsoft is trying to counter Linux and piracy in Asia by offering a stripped down version of Windows XP for $36 USD.

The limitations of this version of Windows include:

Only 3 programs can run at the same time
800x600 maximum resolution
No PC-to-PC networking support
No printer sharing support
No multiple user accounts.

Lol, that sounds like WindowsME. :)
 
  • #3
The thought of Microsoft giving the asians such a terrible product should justify a lawsuit (joke). It's stupid of Microsoft to think they could conquer the asian market where free operating systems reign. Japan is especially fond of FreeBSD and it's native Japanese console support.
 
  • #4
Only 3 programs can run at the same time
800x600 maximum resolution

They should proabably rethink those ideas. Who on Earth would buy that sort of OS?
 
  • #5
Microsoft did accomplish one of their objectives, though: fighting software piracy. This is the first Microsoft OS in a long time that people are *not* going to want to pirate.

It would be interesting though to see if some of this version's limited features can somehow be circumvented. I seriously doubt this, however. I would theorize the developers actually *stripped* out the features. Of course, they could have been lazy and implemented these parameters without much thought.
 
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  • #6
dduardo said:
Microsoft is trying to counter Linux and piracy in Asia by offering a stripped down version of Windows XP for $36 USD.
I am sure that the article is a joke. Even Microsoft could not be this dumb.
 
  • #7
36 dollars for crap ehehehe
 
  • #8
How long before it, too, becomes downloadable (along with nearly everything else)?
 

What is Windows XP: Starter Edition?

Windows XP: Starter Edition is a version of the Windows XP operating system that was made specifically for low-cost and entry-level computers in emerging markets. It was released in 2004 and was meant to provide basic functionality for those who could not afford the full version of Windows XP.

What are the key features of Windows XP: Starter Edition?

The key features of Windows XP: Starter Edition include a simplified user interface, limited customization options, and a smaller set of pre-installed programs compared to the full version of Windows XP. It also has a reduced price and is only available in certain languages and regions.

Can I upgrade from Windows XP: Starter Edition to the full version of Windows XP?

No, it is not possible to upgrade from Windows XP: Starter Edition to the full version of Windows XP. However, users can purchase an upgrade to Windows XP: Home Edition or Professional Edition, which will provide them with additional features and functionality.

Is Windows XP: Starter Edition still supported by Microsoft?

No, Windows XP: Starter Edition is no longer supported by Microsoft. Support for this version of Windows XP ended in 2009, and users are encouraged to upgrade to a newer operating system to ensure their computer's security and performance.

What are the system requirements for Windows XP: Starter Edition?

The minimum system requirements for Windows XP: Starter Edition are a 233MHz processor, 64MB of RAM, and 1.5GB of available hard drive space. However, it is recommended to have at least a 300MHz processor, 128MB of RAM, and 1.5GB of available hard drive space for optimal performance.

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