Netbook 2009: The Four Big Changes

[ Thanks to sjvn for this link. ]

"1) First, really and truly guys, if Microsoft has its way, we're going to see Windows 7 Starter Edition on netbooks in North America and Western Europe. You don't have to believe me, read what Windows General Manager Mike Ybarra had to say in February, "Windows Starter edition will now be available worldwide. This edition is available only in the OEM channel on new PCs limited to specific types of hardware." He's talking about netbooks.

"There will be a version, however, of Windows 7 that won't be offered in first world countries. It's Windows 7 Home Basic, not Starter Edition.

"Now whether or not netbook manufacturers are going to want to offer Windows 7 Starter Edition is another question entirely. Acer and Intel both have real doubts about Microsoft's netbook plans

"Ideally, what Microsoft will want you to do is to buy your low-cost Windows 7 netbook with Starter Edition, get disgusted with it, and upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium. Sources tell me that most Starter implementations will include and instant Home Premium upgrade feature. This will work by paying an additional license fee to Microsoft over the Web. In return, you'll a new license number that will unlock the Home Premium features."

Complete Story

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