Thursday, May 7, 2009

Tech post from OZ

I was trying to think who would buy a copy of Windows 7 starter edition when it is released. The artificial limit of 3 applications running at one time would mean that I would be crazy to use it as my primary OS, but wouldn't it make a fantastic virtual machine to run the odd Windows application for Linux and OSX users? These users could use the excellent VMWare, Parallels Desktop, or the free Virtual Box to fire up a copy of windows 7 when needed.

Assuming it cost a small amount of money, say £10, and I could buy a copy electronically by downloading the disc image, and it let me install it as a virtual machine, then I would be the first in line to buy a copy! I think Microsoft could sell large numbers of this version if they were sensible enough to relax their EULA and sell licences electronically.

Why would anyone bother to steal a copy of Windows 7 if there was an easy and cheap way to buy a suitable version legally. Trouble is I don't think Microsoft wants to sell this version of windows at all, preferring users to buy Windows home premium instead. So my question is:-

Who is Windows starter edition aimed at? Who will buy it? And why does it exist anyway.

1 comment:

Kane said...

Plenty of organisations out there are still running W 2k. There has to be a reason to upgrade.

I have just given Win 2k under Parallels up because OneNote 2007 won't run under it. OneNote is THE ONE piece of MS office that intrigues me. Sad to say it seems better than the Mac competition on initial examination. So if I start using OneNote for the long term I would consider buying Windows 7 Starter edition if the next version doesn't work with XP. On the other hand if Crossover supports it successfully why should I bother.