Gartner warns against Cheaper XP
Gartner warns against Cheaper XP
Microsoft's plans to sell a cheaper, user-friendly version of Windows XP to markets in Asia have been criticised by Gartner because it believes that the package will fail to combat piracy due to the lack of an upgrade path.
Windows XP Starter Edition is a much cheaper version of Microsoft's flagship operating system, but without all of the standard features.
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Instead it contains new functionality targeted at first-time users, including a new support centre, tutorials on how to use the mouse and beginners' guides to using Windows and common applications.
The Starter Edition is part of an effort started by Microsoft 18 months ago to work more closely with foreign government on expanding computer literacy and use.
Gartner says that this version will not help in the fight against piracy and might encourage potential customers to buy the full version of Windows XP Home from a software pirate.
Dion Wiggins, vice president and research director at Gartner said: "Microsoft could have made a big difference with this product, but is more likely to be seen as pushing the upgrade path and frustrating users rather than delivering the value that this product is capable of, due to unnecessary limitations.
"Fortunately XPSE is still in Beta so it is not too late to make changes before the October launch.
Martin Gilliland, the principal analyst at Gartner added: "Many citizens who do not own a PC are already familiar with basic PC use from cyber-cafes and schools. XPSE is likely to frustrate these users, as it is not delivering the same quality experience due to the limitations imposed and the failure to allow the operating system to grow with users as they gain experience.
"We believe this will result in increased piracy as Microsoft has no upgrade path unless users pay full retail price for the Windows XP Home edition."
Wiggins believes that Microsoft should be commended for its efforts, but it falls short in other areas.
"The most significant is the deliberate crippling of the operating system to allows just three applications to run at any one time. Microsoft claims this provides a simpler end-user experience."
He added that Microsoft has also failed to address security issues such as ongoing patch distribution on slow and expensive connection and anti-virus, and failed to provide the users with any education in these areas.
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