Microsoft expands XP rights through Windows 7
Published: 07 Apr 2009 12:57 BST
Microsoft has said it plans to offer users the option to buy machines with Windows 7 licences that have been 'pre-downgraded' by the manufacturer to run XP.
Downgrade rights have long been a part of the Windows licence for certain versions, particularly for businesses. With Vista, the downgrade right was not only marketed by computer makers but, once Microsoft stopped selling XP, some PC makers sold Vista machines that were "pre-downgraded" to Windows XP.
Microsoft is expanding that Vista downgrade-rights programme slightly, the company confirmed on Monday. Under the new programme, PC makers will be able to ship pre-downgraded machines based on anticipated demand for those systems. Until now, computers makers could only ship XP-downgraded machines if a particular customer had specified that is what he or she had wanted.
As noted by ZDNet.com's Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft plans a similar programme for Windows 7, allowing users to go back not only to Vista, should they choose, but also to Windows XP.
Microsoft has not detailed exactly how downgrade rights will work with Windows 7, beyond confirming that users will be able to go back to XP.
Businesses with volume-licensing deals covering Windows have long had the right to use any earlier version of Windows with their PCs.
Credit: Windows 7 will allow downgrades too from CNET News
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