Software giant promises to provide OS updates and patches long after usual expiry date

Microsoft will support XP until 2014

Microsoft has said it will continue to support Windows XP until 2014 – 13 years after the operating system was released.

Usually Microsoft ends such support for its operating systems less than ten years after launch. Many have asserted that the move points to a lower than expected uptake of its successor Vista, however Microsoft said the move is simply a recognition of the long lifespan of Windows based PCs.

“Our ongoing support for Windows XP is the result of our recognition that people keep their Windows-based PCs for many years,” said senior VP Bill Veghte. "It’s true that we will stop selling Windows XP as a retail packaged product and stop licensing it directly to major PC manufacturers, but customers who still need Windows XP will be able to get it."

Link: Information Week

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