Windows Vista Versions Unveiled

Microsoft isn't Baskin Robbins. It doesn't need 31 flavors of Windows. As a computer salesman, I can tell you that this is just going to confuse the hell out of people. Hell, it's hard enough now trying to tell them the differences between Home, Media Center, and Pro. People won't know which one they need. Some won't want Ultimate saying "I don't need all of that.", some won't get what they need by going with the basic saying "I'm sure it'll do everything." Some particularly computer illiterate people will just have no idea at all. IMO, and operating system shouldn't be a big decision. It's there, it works, let it be.

They should do 2 versions, do a Home version and a business version. Having 31 flavors only helps when you're selling ice cream.

My first thought is, why make things so complicated. Including tablet pc seems rediculous if most people don't have a tablet pc. I am interested in the Vista Ultimate and the comparison of the enterprise. I am wondering if it is comparable like XP home to Professional? I think the tablet PC is a great technology but people want to spend less on computers, not more, so why target that market unless the price is coming down? XP still has tons of bugs in it, Vista better be all it is cracked up to be!

So here I am, with a tablet pc, life-critical since it is the only way I can communicate (I lost my speech to ALS), with no idea whatsoever if I will want to upgrade or not. Will it work with my speech synthesis sytems and voice engines? Will I be lost in upgrade hell unable to communicate at all?

One of my speech products is already pretty long in the tooth -- the other one is new and "plays nicely with others".

I'll say this for Microsoft: they sure know how to obfuscate a market. I agree with the earlier comment, that this will make things even more confusing for consumers. In reality, the only point of Home before was to allow consumers a cheaper upgrade path, and to keep businesses from using that option they made Home incapable of joining a domain. Why do we need all of the options separated? Just make one version cheap enough for home users, and another for businesses, and throw all of the rest into install options like Windows 9x used to be.

I think going this route with multiple versions is a good idea. Rather than condensing all features into only one or two versions, it's spread out more so that the end user or business can get one customized to their needs. Much better than having it all in one big, bloated version.

Have they not learnt KISS from business history-keep it simple stupid. I'm computer literate-hey I'm literate and I'm as confused as hell already. As other commentators have said why not just have 2 versions for business and the home user. This could seriously make me move over to Apple.

As an Apple shareholder, this is thrilling news. :) I wonder how badly Basic will end up being crippled... worse than XP Home, maybe? Don't even want to think about Starter... as a former sys admin that gives the the absolute shivers.

Seems to me a typical Bill Gates venture: make more money and dominate. Lets face it, most people won't get the basic version only because, as stated, the aero interface...major selling point for Vista. I agree with everyone here, 2 versions please. Just adds confusion.

This will only hurt Microsoft's already marred reputation as shillers of flawed OS' With years to perfect it, they still haven't got a sound, solid and reliable version of XP going. To think they will now be spreading resources between so many different versions makes it very hard to believe any of them will ever get the attention needed to be what it should be.

With so many versions to choose from it makes me wonder, as a developer, which one(s) I need in order to hit my market? Which version will be robust for my development needs but not so expensive that I can't afford it? Do I need a business version or a home premium or ultimate? Not having the right tool for the job makes my life that much more difficult.

I doubt if I'll upgrade, especially after finally getting a hold of XP SP2. In fact, I will probably go back to 98SE or W2K SP2. I don't much care for the 1 computer limit to load the OS and having to log on to keep it activated. We have three homebuilt computers in the house. In order to run all the programs we have, I'll have to partition and run multiple OSs. XP's emulator doesn't work for spit. Marketeers and developers continue to get it wrong. I'm not sure who has the money to keep buying the latest and the greatest... I know I don't and it's seldom worth it to try.

What fools... Do all these different versions really serve a puropse ??

This is going to be a nightmare. Present users with too much choice, and they'll flail around and make one. They'll inevitably be unhappy with the outcome because it didn't include something they needed and had presumed to be included. Remember the Office XP Small Business Edition that sounded absolutely fine until you discovered it didn't include PowerPoint?

I agree with Steve Martin: two versions, Business and Home. Both install basic features, and if you want to activate any added bells and whistles, select them from a menu when you need them, and pay for the upgrade online with a credit card.

I dont get it - They have a good buzz going and in the end they stick there foot right into there mouth. Like everyone says keep it simple 2 versions home and work why waste time and money on things people will not want in the long run - unless they want u to get the basic then you relize you need to upgrade to the next one and have to pay for it.

Buy a Mac - Problem solved.

I used to be a computer salesman myself. There are just so many things wrong with this idea of multiple versions: most of the people that come into stores to buy PC's these days are stil n00bs or very casual users who just "want one". They have no clear idea of what they want, what they want to do with it now or in the future. What they do know is: they want it cheap.

How many of colleagues have had to face customers who were upset that their $600 PC didn't have MS Office on it? (Office basic retails at $500, OEM still at a whopping $200).

With so many vague feature limits in the different versions, the regular consumer will end up buying the cheapest one and then find a computer savvy cousin to download and install the Ultimate edition for them.

Now that isn't what the industry needs, is it?

You can't be serious.... There is no way any1 wants more versions. Those that want more have never actually used or worked with a computer evidentlly. Agree with the earlier post, add it to the install options in control panel. It makes no sense to put out a bad product full of flaws to later put out multiple bad products. In summary...BAD IDEA.

P.S. I feel for software company progrmmers. Just think how much higher software costs will go up because of design fees.

Ladiesman, I really feel for you sales people out there. I have been there and done that in a large scale electronics store, and you are right, Xp already confuses the hell out of people. This will only create a nightmare scenario for you all, not to mention having to deal with which models have which operating sytem installed

I can't wait for all my family members to ask me what they should use. I'll say, "Stick with what you got." When it's time for one of them to buy a new computer, maybe they'll go with a Mac which has, thankfully, one clean, full-featured OS for the desktop/laptop market.

One thing I can say about the Redmondonians is that they really know how to market their products. Just stop and think about it, like any other business they are in it for the money. Sure having varying OS versions can cause confusion in the beginning for some, but this could be a positive thing as well. Would you pay for options that you'll most likely not use? Plus they'll be plenty of write-ups about the Vista OS family. It'll be only confusing if you let it. Do your homework before you go out and shop.

As a longtime user of Windows, I can say that this concept is one of the best ideas that Microsoft has come up with in a long time. What an opening for Linux and it's various clones. The difference here is Linux is FREE, and contrary to many folks, it's easy to set up, quite secure, and also comes in many flavors.

If I designed an atntitrust action in a nation like ours, it would be to simply delegate the right to vote one share to everyone in the nation. More peole would vote on this than they do in presidential elections, while maintaining the efficiency of a near-monopoly... The only real reason monopolies are bad is because they don't do what we want. That's a fact.

The simplest solution: buy a Macintosh. You need Office suite? There is Office for Apple. Anything else you need, Apple brand applications will likely cover all your needs and trump the aesthetics and quality of anything offered for Windows users. Oh and as we're on the topic of the OS, well with Apple you just have one that will work in both a business and home world; and it will work, you won't have to be scared about buying the OS or wait for SP1 and SP2 to comeout before you can finally trust it.

Also, for those that have diehard Windows applications they love or must use, well keep a close eye on the Intel Macs then. Emulator developers are quite confident that in no longer having to deal with the Intel to PowerPC translation, their emulators will not see anywhere near the kind of performance loss as they once did. While one ought to take what the developers say with a grain of salt, its worth looking into and if it holds true, why on earth put up with Windows?

All the so called 'amazing' or 'power' features that Vista is bringing out have been available for Mac users for over a year, probably 2 years by the time Vista actually hits store shelves. Do your research and you might find that the best upgrade is to switch to Apple not to switch to a new OS that you'll likely need to wait for multiple service pack releases for before its legitmately stable and worth using.

Just so you know, I am primarily a Windows user. I'm not a long time uber-Apple guy that just likes to rip on Windows. I've just simply come to better understand the deficiences in quality in Windows the more I've worked on an Apple. Microsoft is a better corporate entity, Apple is a better software designer.

I'll wait for the first Sevice Pack to be released before committing to anything... =8||

Im in agreement with the consesus here - multiple versions equals much confusion. I'm wondering about the focus groups they tested these babies own. Didn't they mention it was a fudge working out which one is best for their needs or were they all to smart for that?

One thing I can say about the Redmondonians is that they really know how to market their products. Just stop and think about it, like any other business they are in it for the money. Sure having varying OS versions can cause confusion in the beginning for some, but this could be a positive thing as well. Would you pay for options that you'll most likely not use? They want to target most of the consumers and the vast majority of the 98 user up to par.
Plus they'll be plenty of write-ups about the Vista OS family. It'll be only confusing if you let it. I don't hink this is a bad idea just more choices, having too many choices can be confusing but without them where will we be?

I've already seen the chaos that Windows XP Multimedia Center and XP Home created in the workplace with drivers supported in XP home and xp pro but not MMC. Domain support removed for the first time in any version of windows. Being an outsourced network admin. I stand to make a TON of money off MS's latest decision and marketing profile. Its a joke that the business version "will help keep PCs running smoothly and securely so they are less reliant on dedicated IT support. " In reality, business owners will open their local paper, see a really cheap computer, probably running Vista Basic, buy it and expect me to make it work in their domain. Hurrah! Shame on you MS. I have to look these people in the eye and tell them "it has less features than windows 2000 and 98 for your business needs"

At last Microsoft is helping to get the Ubuntu, Suse and other Linux distributions even better established. Need something? Don't bother about going to MS University to study which version you need and then to the bank to get a stack of money to pay for it. Simply click the linux installed package, select the feature or application and install it. Life is so sweet at home these days, hey I even log onto my home PC from work to do stuff that windows can't. Thanks, Bill, keep the confusion coming, it works for us!

put simply, this will cause people too go and download the Ultimate version because they can't justify spending $200 on an OS because the $99 OS they baught doesn't have all the features they thought it would have, and because it isn't such a big improvment. i envision that gamers will download the ultimate and dual boot with XP. they'll need Vista for Halo 2 (MS pulling it's muscule again) but still use XP since it is simpler. and not including the Aero interface in the Basic is just a shot in the foot for MS since that is what people judge an OS by. XP looked different then previous versions and so people baught it. if you've got two OS's that look the same and you can't tell the difference, why buy the new one?

Six versions of Windows ? Six more reasons to switch to a Mac

I see no reason to "upgrade" as it is. I still use Windows 2000. We don't need a new file system, a flashy new cartoon interface, integrated web search (if it's as slow as XP's file search, Google will score another win), or any of the other "improvements" that are promised with Vista. The operating system shouldn't include all sorts of integrated "features" that just bog it down.

I've seen the Vista beta trying to run on a system with an AthlonXP 3200+ and 1GB of PC300 RAM, and it's like waiting for paint to dry. That flashy interface and laundry list of random "features" just makes Vista a bloated system hog.

Wow this is retarded why are they gonna make tablet freindly ??? how about the people who prefer PCs ??

Well...How many service packs would be there. I sure would end up downloading a wrong one. 6 different editions ..hohoho... actually, for downloading patches there'll be 12 (32bit & 64 bit). Very very confusing..

Idea for having a XP home is that it's meant for HOME without Networking features (there'r some however).

6 different ideas....Hard to swallow ..let alone understading it.... It looks just like a Sales gimmick to address different segments of Market which i feel would take a bite. I know Fortune 500 companies that in 2005 were still on Win2000 Prof. Would they change from XPPro to one of these 6 versions..... I don't see this being received well....

Can you believe there's a Starter addition as well....

Am I the only one on the planet who wants to buy JUST an operating system and THEN add the programs I want? This has gotten way out of hand trying to bundle everything that anyone could possibly want to use into the "operating system" Microsoft is turning into a system integrator.

"Build a system a fool can use and only a fool will want to use it!"

Want to play games? Buy a console. I learned how to use a computer at an expert level from installing and playing games - but those days are long gone. Want to be a Tech geek and work in the industry MS created through it's incompetence? - buy a PC. Want to actually get work done? - Buy a Mac.

Let's just go back to DOS 6.22 and start over.
At least it worked and there was only one. Can't remember having too many problems with it and seemed to be pretty fast on a 486 dx66. More versions is a waste of MS's valuable time. This is a the kinda move that failing companies try in a last ditch effort to survive b4 shutting down.

It's really not a bad setup. I agree that 2 version is nice, look at it this way:

Home Basic - Upgrade for XP as they'll stop issuing updates for XP in a while as they did for Windows 98. This will be able to run on most old computers easily.
Home Premium - The New OS
Home Ultimate - The New OS with the Home/Office features in addition to the Entertainment and Gaming Systems.

Business - Has tools for small to medium sized businesses that are rather useless to home users; won't have the gaming features that home versions.
Enterprise - Keeps big businesses happy giving them more tools and flexibility that they wouldn't otherwise find in regular XP. Also lets them offer bulk purchasing packages without worrying that someone will install it on a home computer. Gets people to upgrade from Windows NT/2000.

Starter - Keep all those cheap/poor people from finding out about Linux/BSD :)

By focussing on niche markets you can remove some fancy features to enhance performance on business machines, and offer more of these same features on the home machines. Not a bad setup.

wtf? with windows 2000 they stated that they where going to make an all in one os... this is crap

**Am I the only one on the planet who wants to buy JUST an operating system and THEN add the programs I want? This has gotten way out of hand trying to bundle everything that anyone could possibly want to use into the "operating system" Microsoft is turning into a system integrator.

"Build a system a fool can use and only a fool will want to use it!" **

Nope, you're not the only one, Bill. I'm right there with you.

What i would really like to know about windows vista is whether or not it will be more friendly with MAC OS programs? I just downloaded the latest version of Itunes for Windows XP and after a seemingly successful install my itunes window will run but will not respond or display... This problem seems to have occurred when windows automatically downloaded updates to my computer shortly after i installed the itunes software. Is windows secretly sabotaging software released by MAC? Seems far fetched but i do know that every time i restart my computer Windows media player ( the worst player i have ever had to use ) constantly tries to reassign its self as the primary player for MP3 & MP4 file types.

This would be an ideal sales product, if and only if the entire population are well educated in computer software. IMO, I doubt businesses would transfer to the new Vista within the next 2 to 3 years, since Xp Pro and 2000 Pro are still in active service. The home entertainment, on the other hand, would be quite impressive. by the looks of integration, MS might desires to turn TabletPC into another ordinary microwave oven like machine. Where each family may require one. Imagine wirelessly remote controllying your Media Center system with a wireless TabletPC. Or reading news paper on your tabletPC and other stuff as if it was any other ordinary printed material.
But of course, that would require some rather low priced computer parts to create such an ideal home entertainment dream.

One thing is for damn sure....I don't care if Microsoft releases 42 versions of Vista.....i'm still not buying a Mac. Not that there's neccesarilly anything WRONG with Mac's, I simply don't buy into the whole hipster "You need a Mac to be cool" image. I know Windows. i've used it forever. I don't want to switch, and have to learn some completely different animal, when the one I have now works fine for me.

I fail to see all the problems with XP. My computers have always worked fine with Windows.

6 different versions? 12 counting the different kernel types!?!?! get serious micro$oft!!! soon the world will see there is a better choice. linux. debian linux. ubuntu, redhat/fc, whatever. how long do you think it will be before people wise up? hmmm... lets see... i can spend $300-$500 PER LICENSE for a buggy, crash-prone, resource-hogging, totally UNsecure OS like windows.... or... i can get a secure, stable OS with infinitely more functionality.. FOR FREE!!! tough choice. if youre a chimpanzee.

Microsoft you are the best! Making all of these OSs is a really good idea. Don't listen to all these other people. Keep at it with all these good ideas.

i personalyl think microsoft should fix all the bugs before starting on a new os, even though the new os is cool looking, ive had the first beta version which was called longhorn, and i personally thought it sucked, this was like a year and a half ago, iam sure it wasnt that much better. microsoft isnt safe at all i like macs becasue they are, but then again taht new trojan that attacks macs. well i think windows should be safer by kicking all the hackers and crackers off with there fake cd keys, that would definately work, but within 1 hour of the release of the new windows it will be up at most of the main download sites and programs, with a crack that you can get updates and everything. - JJ

Why not just have one version of Windows with installation options for home, small business, etc.? They just don't get it....

Just the operating system please. When I can have access to all of my processor, all of my memory, and can create multiple independant instances on any drive connected to my machine. Then you can let your developers work on the other crap.

Like all Microsoft OS releases, Vista, will come complete with an array of bugs an glitches which MS will, again, rely on consumer of its "finished product" to beta test for the development team. This time 'round there'll be 12 versions, each with its own problems, not to mention the additional problem of integrating broadpatch fixes that'll cover hiccups that all 12 versions have in common. I dunno if MS knows it can bite off more than it can chew. But, I suspect, this time we'll find out. I'm sticking with XP until the dust clears on this'un.

Something i'm worried about is the talk about the "copyright protections" is supposed to have, why buy a product that doesn't let you use your files how you want.

As a dedicated user of the Tablet PC I am very glad to see it included in most of the new Vistas. I'm amazed that many more people don't use a tablet (since its functionality is so much better for the average mobile user than a laptop; and, way, way better for the knowledgable road warrior). Even a home user could have great value by browsing on their computer in the "Lazy Boy" with a pen rather than a keyboard.

Well this is great news for other operating systems. Who knows, maybe MS wants to promote Linux? xD I remember screwing myself over buying XP Home. What a mistake THAT was. Now the odds are tripled. It's a shame I love games so much, I'm already 75% convinced I should use Linux or Mac based on my usage. MS has SO much clout, why don't they use it by giving a simple, universal solution? This definitely decreases my chances of buying significantly.

why oh why does linux seem more appealing to me? i think microsoft is sticking it to themselves with this update. wont waste money on it though. someone will crack it...then i'll try the "free" version

I was concerned about this article but http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Vista tells the truth. I thought 6+ versions of Vista would be bad, but it?s really easy to pick. Basic for budget home comps, Premium for normal home comps, Ultimate for custom/high-end/gamer comps, Business for all business, and Enterprise for MS Enterprise Accounts (SA). Most people with end up with Premium for home (for newer comps) and only Business for work. Just sell normal home users Premium (if they have a newer comp and good video card) and gamers Ultimate or sell them a new custom built or Tier 1 (HP & Dell & Toshiba & etc) desktop/notebook/tablet package that has the right OS for them. I will personally get Ultimate.

I don't get it. Microsoft Media Center has some pretty serious drawbacks, and even with last years update, well, it's a piece of crap. I am not satisfied with that product yet, and here comes more.

Windows is also removing support for Internet Explorer on Macs, even though it was only n00bs that used and still use it. I am a firefox man and have looked at IE7 - IE7 is firefox with a windows theme. Vista is shit with extra stink lines. I'll stick with XP for a while ... well I was windows 3.1 to Windows 98SE to XP so maybe i'll skip vista ... im sure i can find an emulator, be it vista or xbox, to support Halo 2. I agree with bill and kris - I say 2 basic systems - Home and Business - Home has the stuff most home users want ie game support - Business has things most businesses want - Ie powerpoint. Just make 2 or better yet 1 ('cause it'll be 2 with the patches (32-bit and 64-bit))

No, you may well not want the most expensive version, because it is likely to be the least safe. Most users need fewer features (and related software holes), not more.

I have never used a Mac before. I dont really want to. I dont want to use some free OS that has NO support for drivers or software. I just want Microsoft to fix their problems. FIX IT! Not create NEW problems (6 more, geez)!

Bill needs a cowboy belt... You know, the kind with your name printed on the back. That way when he pulls his head out of his a** he will know who he is. Home and pro where bad enough, but SIX versions. I need to find a new job and quit being a sysadmin... You want fries with that???

ROTFLMAO, I have heard of overkill but this has got to be the absolute stupidest thing Bill has done yet.
When they dropped support for for the older OS's I decided to try out Linux, and yes some of it took a little bit of time to get working exactly the way I wanted. But since doing so these units have not given a single problem since, I mean nothing! So thanks to Bill's greed driven OS I will swear to this much, when they get around to dropping support for XP home and Pro I will drop use of Windows OS entirely. I already have set up classes teaching some of those "Noobs" just how easy they can do the basic things they want on a totally FREE OS, and I would guess 2-3 of every 10 have left windows already. When you have a company as big as MickeySoft and as deversified as they already are, I simply do not see the logic in forcing the hand of those that feed you. When I go to a resteraunt that hs the best stake in town, and they tell me that I can no longer order the stake without buying these 6 side dishes with it, well its pretty simple to guess what I would tell them. If bill wants multiple systems here is how they should go. Home = Windows with all the basics including networking, MMC and MS Works installed.
Business equals full blown networking with basic server qualities MS Office PRO with the whole 9 yards just abou everything. and last but not least Enterprise Edition = Server with all that it encompases. 3 versions and only 3 as for those other countries, build them a basic if that is what they want and leave the rest of us out of it.
But this will not happen and thus like I said, I will look forward to seeing the rest of you joining the ranks of Linux/Unix soon. And the others thay have the money to burn will probably move to Mac's.

Ah...15 different versions and likely all of them crippled by the fact that the security will be horrific and buggy as all get out.

People will no doubt by the basic for the cost issue and then find that what they really want wasn't included, so they'll be forced to either upgrade or suffer, which will just mean that Gates will get more money out of this.

I have to say this, he's a brilliant businessman, playing upon the stupidity and ignorance of the common user. He'll sell twice as many because people are stupid and don't know what they need.

PS: To those that crack on grammer and spelling, I forgot to place the previous post in the spell checker before I hit the post button, I was a bit taken aback by this. And since i know i already screwed one up I see no reason to waste time checking this one lol.
So sue me if you must. :)

as a person who uses windows and macs, i can say macs are great too. no, not because they're hipster cool things. thats the dumbest thing i ever heard. they're great machines with great software. i use windows and linux but i find that i more often prefer using my mac. pity that people react to some of the people who use macs and not to the machine itself. such chips on their shoulders. with that logic then you shouldnt buy BMWs or any other quality thing that has an aesthetic appeal. damn reactionaries, eternally stuck with their fragile image..."no no i cant buy that. do you know what'll it do to my sense of self. it'll completely destroy it."

I think the system requirements are ridiculous. 1GB of RAM, 64MB video card?? And I thought XP was a resource hog!

I agree with the previous comments regarding confusion of having six flavors. It seems to me that Microsoft will dramatically increase the cost of their lame, buggy OS. By offering the basic version, they hope to soften the "sticker shock". I am certain that a lot of users will be "forced" to pay more $$ to upgrade to a more usable version.

I myself will be migrating to Linux, a free and stable OS Linux.

Guess I'm getting a Mac!

1) Perhaps the real reason is antitrust. The cheap version with no add ons(and no push from Microsoft for anyone to buy), then the rest with addons that may cross the line to pushing a different product line (antivirus/spyware, IE, Messenger, MSN, etc.).
2) Will all the tablet stuff automatically run in the background? (odds, it will)
3) If you buy the wrong version, will there be a cheap way to upgrade to the one you should have bought?

I'm an ex-Windows user now, and proud of it! I will never, ever understand how MS was able to trick so many people into buying that scum.. eerrr system. They should be proud of themselves. Heck, MS would be probably able to sell a TV to a blind man, and a refrigerator to an Eskimo..

Just today while installing some new stuff on Linux (Slackware to be precise), I got this voice in my head telling me that this system is the best thing that happened to me since I got a PC in the first place (133MHz, 16MB Ram, Windows 3.1, *sigh*.. the good old days when Windows was actually fast). And I vow never to install Windows on my PC ever again. Amen..

How about one version that works like it is supposed too? No flaws or Service Packs no constant Critical Updates, you know a operating system based on something other than Swiss Cheese. Just a thought!

Windows live forever!! Macs suck! Ra ra.

Buy a Mac, trash Windows. Ra Ra.

Total dweebs. Puerile 4th graders

Great Microsoft . weldone!

To Jim, who posted "It'll be only confusing if you let it. Do your homework before you go out and shop."

You're missing the point. I don't think anyone posting here doesn't do their homework. The confusion to come will not effect the geeks. The six versions means headaches when we (the geeks) try to explain the differences in the six Vistas to family-members and friends depending on us for computer advice and assistance. That is, I am not looking forward to trying to explain the various versions of Vista to my brother, who understands computers about as well as I understand Japanese (which is not at all).

mega byter: The comparison to a BMW was a great one. Yeah, a BMW is a good car, just like Macs are good computers. But then again, why do you need the $60,000 BMW when the $20,000 Ford is just as good. Because it's in style. It's en vogue to hate on Microsoft, and it's en vogue to hate on American cars.

How many people bought iPods for the image, especially when they first came out?! How many buy Mac's when passing by their store because they look cool? Probably the biggest thing I get when trying to sell PC's is how cool Mac's look. ALOT of people have no idea of the difference between Mac OS and Windows.....they want the Mac because it's stylish.

Personally, I use Windows because like I said before, I have and I see no reason to change. Maybe i'm lucky, but i've never had a problem with Windows. Certaintly nothing to make me not want to use it. Plus, in the business world, Linux and Mac are just totally out of the question. I played with Linux, It's cool, whatever. I went back to Windows.

mac osx.....need i say anymore :)

Alrighty then first off, lets quit with the operating system bashing. Both Macs and Windows systems have their uses. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. As for the new Windows. I quite like the idea. If done properly by both microsoft and the sales people on the ground this could potentially be great. A little confusing at first glance yes but then again thats what people said about Windows XP along with osX. I say good work microsoft for giving us a choice.

I wish Apple would actually be competitive for home gamers, but as long as companies continue mainly developing DirectX games, Apple is out in the cold.

Apple should spend considerable capital persuading companies to create and use a non-MSFT only api (hey, start with OpenGL).

Frankly, I'd love to see Gates and MSFT face great competition. One nice thing Apple does is offer home licenses for their OS. If you like to build computers (as I do), and if you have 4-5 computers at home, then buying several Vista licenses is expensive, especially considering what you'll be getting.

APPLE WILL TRIUMPH AT LAST

screw you all!! use linux

The first non-mythical creature with five legs.

Contrary to all of the 'dows bashing. I think that this will actually prove to be a smart move for Microsoft and, depending on pricing, my opinion of them will probably change for the better.Finally, they're giving consumers choice. For the record, I am a Mac user and a licensed Linux zealot.

If THEY offer multiple versions, I'll be waiting multiple months or multiple years before I buy it. Sorry, Bill.

Well, come now, Bill has a great plan; see MSFT has already admitted the Ultimate version will be locked into the DVD and accessible via the proper license key. They (OEM) will install the super-Best (test OS from ship date until the first Service Pack - Let's be honest) then after a month or so you'll have to upgrade (buy) a license due to the fact all the "ultimate Plus-Pack" goodies in the Vista "gold level" OS will expire. Thus leaving the client with the old drab stripped-down non-AERO "Starter" version until upgrade key is entered and activated. You are not thinking like Bill Gates. Look at all of the "phone home" goodies they have been beta testing in the x64 Edition of XP. When Vista boots, you log on, it will immediately go to MSFT to verify valid licensing, much less the validations when dialing out for the "fixes" through "Wnidows Update." Kudos Bill, I feel as if the slow migration to MAC for me started with the iPod but Vista will push me over the edge. My XP x64 Box will simply end up as a TiVo multimedia server until MAC perfects "Front Row" TiVo compatability.

yo more shit to dabble around with and complain about & with.....for all, us computer geeks out there! That love computers and net no matter what! woooot
It has begun! =)

I use a Mac at home and a PC at work. They both do the same thing. The MAC is great for home movies and anything multimedia. It's all part of a free add on call iLife. Microsoft would have been better served by building one product and selling add ons. But hey... I'm sure my IT department will upgrade my XP in the next couple of years. Vista will be fine as XP is just fine. If you want gaming... buy a Xbox or Playstation. Microsoft operating systems are for MS Office products. If you don't add crap to your PC, it will work fine. Always has, always will... Get over it!

Vista is for work. OS/x is for multimedia
End of Rant!

Well, Mac OS X is UNIX and also for scieence and math, not just for multimedia. Also, simplicity: Mac OS X and Mac OS X Server. All the development tools are free and work with either of the two (not 6) versions. Of course, multimedia is built in and free.

MSFT has a plan for you: to entrap you and suck you dry. No thanks.

i hope linux grows up before the support cycle of xp ends. this vista is looking a might tacky.

I would just sell one version of the OS (It would have all the features on ) and have people pick up the extra feature/s as they need.

I would just sell one version of the OS (It would have all the features on ) and have people pick up the extra feature/s as they need.

The only reason Mac doesn't work well in Enterprise environments is Microsoft has done everything it can to cut off Mac OS at the knees. They've all but castrated any Exchange functionality, there's NEVER been a Mac version of MS Project or Access (Who cares Filemaker is better anyway). The trouble is MS can do what it wants noone has any real choice except go along for the ride.

I just read the article and I can't understand why MS would be doing this, other than the financial gains they will receive. I am an on site tech, and most of my customers are computer illiterate, so I see my job becoming that much more work. Many prople have alot of problems with XP already, let alone have a joke like a basic version. My XP system runs completely flawless, but I don't see myself jumping to Vista anytime soon. Haven't had any problems for well over 3 years, pretty good. Just make it simple, please, no extra versions that nobody is really going to like anyway.

Screw M$.. I am going Mac and never looking back!!!!!!!!!

judging by these reactions it looks like MS might be making a bad move. from the posts on this site i would guess that 10:1 people are against it.

I'm a huge (die-hard) fan of Windows and I can tell you that Microsoft is doing great and making a good move. 6 versions are not that bad. When Windows Vista gets released, I will be getting Windows Vista Ultimate!!!

Oh, and those who hated Windows, if you don't like Microsoft, don't bother posting and stick to which OS you use. I've read pretty very lame comments like "get a Mac and problem will be solved" and "screw Microsoft. use Mac or Linux," and they do seem childish.

I am a total Windows geek and have been keeping up ahead of security and what's happening from Microsoft.

Jeebus,

Time to go buy Apple stock.

Yeah, this doesn't sound good to me at all. I don't like the idea of all these different kind of OS's, it's really going to confuse people who are not that computer literate.

Go Buy a Mac, While your at it, buy stock in them also. Funny thing, all the microsoft office programs run better on a mac, more features, easier to use. odd?

I agree. If this doesn't show how lame and aimless MS is -- and doubtless how bizzare Bill Gates' mind is -- nothing will. Or for that matter, trying to wreck the next gen DVD market by backing what was once considered the DOA HD-DVD just to "get" Sony Corp.

If anyone here hasn't caught on to all this creepy MS garbage yet -- where have you been.

I wonder why they bother with it all (keeping code pushers employed until they can find meaningful work?) - when Vista [enter cool-named version here] hits, everying that one needs to pump blood into the iron will be sipped from the net as required, then discarded.

Hi All,
Bought a Mac 4 years ago. Best purchase I made.
PS: I'm a geek.

12 reasons to buy a mac

12 reasons to buy a mac

Oh yeah, ive used vista and seen it work. and yes it still blue screens and takes a big giant dump

Why are people so concerened about Microsoft or what they do? I switched my three networked machines to Linux Suse and Linspire Months ago and it was free on Magazine covers and was the best thing I have done. Nobody needs Gates.

It's funny to see how many Microsoft bashers have Hotmail adresses. Unless of they just use them for public forums :-)

More unbridled greed from microsoft. I have been a PC microsoft geek for for nearly 20 years and have had my fill.

MAC will give you a five user license for less than the price of one for XP. I can't imagine how the cost of these operating systems will be bloated. What's the goal in Redmond, to own the world?

I can't tell you how many times a day I curse Microsoft for making inferior software. Wouldn't it be nice if they spent a few pennies on product testing. Then again, why do that when you can have millions of consumers duped into beta testing a product they have to pay a premium to use.

Now that MAC is on the intel platform I will encourage all my clients to either jump over to the MAC or invest in Linux.

F--K microsoft, too f'ing greedy! May the knats of a thousand camels infest gate's crotch.

maybe they should stick to free email then

Remember Windows 2000, Then Windows Me and then WindowsXP. Basically Microsoft is maximizing profits through dividing the product. This is an old marketing rule. In this case, diversification of the product can hide behind "legitimate" reasons , such as business use, tablets, etc.

Lol..hehehe..Who's going to spend money for these junks. 12 versions. LMAO. You know what I'll do > I'll bring PIRATED Indo-Chinese copies for my own poor lonely PC. hahaha. 12 version will cost me 24 dollars. :( Too Much.

I'm still dying with a version of XP. This trash took me a long time to get comfortable with.

7 x 32 bit versions of windows
6 x 64 bit versions of windows
A total of 13 versions of vindows to choose from..........
hmm..........I think I'll wait for the hacked version like I do every release.......MUHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!

Almost 22 years later and the arguments, analogies and angst sound exactly the same. After having paid dearly for both Mac and DOS / Windows systems and O/S software during those intervening years, I have come to the conclusion that it all boils down to one thing: what do you use your computer for? As it was then, it is today; I have one fairly up to date version of each sitting on the same desk. A few feet away from this desk is the $15,000.00 reason why there remains a PC: the raster image processing software for my wide-format sign printer/cutter is only available for Windows. Period. Everything else that I have to do with a computer is easily, elegantly and yes, in my eyes, esthetically-pleasingly performed on the Mac. A year-plus-old 14? iBook at that, running last year?s flavor of the O/S. Hip? Perhaps. Cool? Maybe. But it works when it?s required to, and that is all that I ask. Continued?

Continued from previous post?
The days of the PC may be numbered with the arrival of the Intel-powered Macs and the emulation software mentioned in some of these posts. I have successfully run (as a proof-of concept only) the RIP software from within the emulation software on the iBook, albeit at a non-commercial pace. With future emulation being able to be performed at the hardware instead of software level, commercial performance may be well within reach. And I?ll have more clear space on my desk (and floor!) Then again, seems to me that Microsoft, not that long ago, bought out the predominant producer of Windows emulation software for the Macintosh! Perhaps Bill?s crystal ball is a lot clearer than we think it is. I won?t list the PC on eBay just yet!

the day norton kept poping up, i got infected with a virus, have spyware everywhere and windows had bogged down so bad it wouldnt load anything and i saw one more of those CRITICAL update bull**** popups at the bottom telling me my microsoft was was going to explode in my face and come back to haunt me in my sleep and eat my dog if i didnt download another update I BOUGHT A MAC AND NEVER LOOKED BACK!!!! and guess what NO BLUE SCREEN !!!! ahahahahah thank you mr jobs

Linux !

the day norton kept poping up, i got infected with a virus, have spyware everywhere and windows had bogged down so bad it wouldnt load anything and i saw one more of those CRITICAL update bull**** popups at the bottom telling me my microsoft was was going to explode in my face and come back to haunt me in my sleep and eat my dog if i didnt download another update I BOUGHT A MAC AND NEVER LOOKED BACK!!!! and guess what NO BLUE SCREEN !!!! ahahahahah thank you mr jobs

Wait for someone to crack it, try all the versions for free! Buy the one which you like, or better yet dont buy it at all.
So many versions will just promote Piracy.

Bad idea Mr. Bill "13 Versions" Gates.

chaser we know you love mac...we get the point...don't repeat the same thing over and over again.

with the point of vista, give some credit to programmers of windows. Even though it has so many flaws and bugs, programming is hard.
I'm onli a high school student and i already know programming without having any errors, crashes and problems is pretty much impossible.

i agree with the people who say there should be only 2 kinds of Vista: Business and Home.
Much More easier to understand for people who don't really know computers :)

"i agree with the people who say there should be only 2 kinds of Vista: Business and Home.
Much More easier to understand for people who don't really know computers :)"

Agreed. THEN allow people who are more advanced FULL freedom (not the hunt & find freedom of XP) to pick and choose which features they want to Add/Remove.

I'm not planning on building a rocket ship so I don't need to figure trajectories to the moon.

All I need a computer for is to get online, play with ebay, post on my blog and on occasion view the short videos that come in emails.

Oh! And word processing with a good spill chucker.

- I'll stick with the XP I have until the Internet passes it by. - GBYAY - prying1 -

I'm not planning on building a rocket ship so I don't need to figure trajectories to the moon.

All I need a computer for is to get online, play with ebay, post on my blog and on occasion view the short videos that come in emails.

Oh! And word processing with a good spill chucker.

- I'll stick with the XP I have until the Internet passes it by. - GBYAY - prying1 -

This should be fun for Independent Software Vendors. Guess they'll now have to buy all twelve versions so they can test out their software to certify it for the various versions.

As far as the consumer trying to pick the right version, it will be easy. Really. Just as easy as trying to pick which Medicare Plan to be on. Are the folks at MS using the same "stategery" as the goverment? Or is it the other way around?

I think eventually it will shake out this way:

Home Premium - home PC

Ultimate - for people who operate a business at home

Business - small businesses

Enterprise - corporations

This way MS could charge a bundle extra for Ultimate over Premium and for Enterprise over Business.

But, sumaz, that's the whole point!~ As mentioned elsewhere here, micro-segmenting any market boosts profits. Look at cars as an object example. "Oh, you want antilock brakes? That comes only on Option Package C - where you get chrome alloy wheels you don't want outside the barrio, a spoiler you don't need on a 4-cylinder import, and a three-note horn perfect for Bo and Luke - an extra $x00." Now rewind, and stick in "Aero", "media Playa", "MS DesktopSearch", and "MSN".
Yeah, hey - sign me up.

Too bad - here was a chance for Windows to take their time and really streamline and tighten the product code. To create a really fantastically stable OS that ran fairly swiftly on even older hardware. Fix the bugs, fix the redundancy and junk code

But no - because it's not about good, it's about sales.

Well, I've been a long time Windows PC user, but I'm thinking of making the leap to a totally different OS.

The funny thing is you will all have the new Windows Vista on your PC's when it comes out. You all sit around and complain about how much it sucks but yet you will still give Bill Gates your money.... I guess he wins.... lol

So... which version is the comparable one to XP Professional...

Sheesh.

Linux anyone?

No matter what MS does people will complain. If they made only two flavors of this os - they would complain their version cost too much and i never use that feature why should i pay for it.

Cars makers should only make 2 versions of their cars.
one that gets good gas milage and one that does not.
or one that is a convertibles and one that is not
or
one that is red and one that is black
or
.....

You could buy a Model T in any color as long as it was black... :)

Well, no matter what they will do, they will never be able to continue.
How do they want us to use their products if another excellent solution is out there waiting to be harvested. LINUX is the solution to all these troubles they give us every now and then.
Waiting to see the first MS announcement of a security hole in their new product....

The computer has become generic?any computer will do just about anything you want to do with a computer, interchangably. The only thing that now distinguishes them is the external appearance and, some would argue, the OS.

Mac OS is UNIX with a fancy GUI, Linux is a strain of UNIX and Windows consists of two strains, the obsolete DOS strain (derived from CP/M, which was derived from UNIX) and the new NT strain (derived from VMS, a UNIX wannabe). So, in the end, we're all running something like UNIX on the same basic commoditized hardware.

Microsoft is attempting to differentiate its OS and customize it in advance sale to what it perceives to be its target audiences. You want something sporty, get the sporty model. You want something sturdy, you get the surdy model. You want something basic, you get the basic model. You want it all or just aren't sure what you want, you get it all in the Ultimate model.

Apple is doing this with the iPod, Microsoft with Windows. Whether it's a smart move remains to be seen.

MicroSoft = General Motors

Need I say more?

Windows should have been recalled 10 years ago.

Methinks that Microsoft have made this so mind boggling and they have had so many problems in the past that most people will just stay with what they have. My programs work just fine and do all that I need or want, why would I upgrade?

Billy Boy is into quantity, not quality - this only hammers the point home for the umpteenth time. Wake up, Windoze users, and switch to mac or linux.

Multiple choices would be great if the choices came from multiple choices of COMPETION. The reduction in competion since the '80's urge to merge, in so many indrustries including software, has lead to less choices. What we are left with here is the dictates of the very few to the very large mass of the rest of us. Wouldn't it be nice if the masses could dictate to the few what the masses want. "Hey Bill, this is what we want". Unfortunally, because the few have a stranglehold on the masses NEEDS, the masses say, "do as you please Bill"

This is only a dillemna for the suckers who purchase this up front. The smart consumers are going to wait till the third patch comes around then decide what operating system to use.

Re Comment by VR, Tuesday 28/2/06.
If General Motors built cars, the way Microsoft builds OS's, General Motors wouldn't build cars any more.Or at least, they would require a mechanic's attention every other day at least.I use Windows XP Home, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, or at least until Microsoft stops supporting it.

Thanks, I'll keep me employed.

Buy a Mac. Microsoft is making the choice easier and easier each day. They haven't done anything creative in a decade at least.

My current OS is WinXP, which was supposed to more reliable and secure than Win2000, which was supposed to be more reliable and secure than Win98, which was supposed to be more reliable and secure than Win95. Now, what is Vista promising me - more reliability and security? Do any of these newer systems really offer typical business users more useful functionality than what they had with Win95 and Office95? Or, is this just part of the upgrade game which only replaces one set of problems with another while breaking things that weren't broken before (the Search feature in XP and 2000 is poor compared to the one in NT)

I want a reliable OPERATING SYSTEM - which is just a bit of simple software used to manage the I/O and other computer applications! Make IE and all the multimedia accessories and other bundled software as plug-ins that can be installed separately if one wants to. A large OS means more code which means more bugs and more vulnerability. But then, that may be what Bill is banking on!

Get your system and a good linux distro - Problem solved

What i think should be done is:

Windows Vista Home
Windows Vista Pro
Windows Vista Business
Windows Vista Ultimate which would combine Pro and Business to gether.

The problem would be solved thus makeing 4 verions with them all having a diffrent purpose like the current Windows XP Home and Pro

All I need is an OS that does not crash. I don't want or need a media player integrated into the OS. There should only be 2 versions, like the XP OS.

I have to agree with a prior poster when he wrote, "Build a system a fool can use and only a fool with use it." There's not much better way to describe the endless drivel spouted by such users. After all, it's Apple--so simple, so easy to use, built just... for fools.

Microsoft's announcement is wonderful news for those of us in the industry who integrate and deploy this stuff. That's why Microsoft and Mr. Gates are among the winners on the planet, as opposed to the whiners Mac users tend to be. And will continue to be. Unlike the vast majority of you who will die in poverty, with all your silly ideas still intact, Microsoft knows how to read the market and respond to what the vast majority of people want.

Of course, most of you techno-religious fanatics don't get that. Regardless, it's Microsoft Windows that is the most successful operating system on the planet by any rational measurement. To quote Don McClean as he sings his lullaby to you little Mac dorks, "You would not listen, you're not listening still... perhaps you never will."

And what really annoys you is that we, on the now decidedly winning side of history, don't care an iota what you think. So go on, play with your Macs, play with yourselves, continue to delude your self-reflexive cabals into thinking Betavision was "superior." Duh. You don't get the business/technology model. And, as Don so succinctly wrote, you never will.

The good news is that MS has committed to support XP for 2 years after Vista ships. That should give them enough time to get the kinks worked out and for people to know what version is for them.

Good Grief! And I thought picking a distro of Linux was problematic. As a developer am I now going to have to test against all six Vista versions? And where is Windows Vista Developer version in all this?

Shheessh...

If Microsoft was to go and put all of their Windows Versions into two basic versions, Home and Professional, whose to say that most PC's have enough resources to run a large OS efficently. Granted there are some that could run large OS's fine, but what about all the little guys that cant afford to do hundreds of dollars worth of upgrades? Even the large businesses that are still crawling by with PIII's. If you need features that are only included in vista and dont have the PC to run the "home" version of vista then you are screwed. I think that many versions may not be a bad idea. As long as they are specific on the things that make them unique and why someone would need them.

>>>---BILL GATES IS BEATING OFF RIGHT NOW----<<<.

I think Microsoft would be better off having one home and one office version. Windows 98 allowed you to add/remove features as needed so you didn't have stuff on there that you never use, so why not have that option in Vista.

I probably won't buy Vista, because my computers will be to slow to run it (700 & 800mhz). I do use XP but the compatibility mode sucks on it. I ran Windows updates on one computer and my daughter's older learning programs quit working. I've added a second hard drive with Windows 98se so she can still use them, it was cheaper than going out and buying new learning programs that work with XP.

Maybe I should just get the Commodore 64 out of the closet. From what everyone has said about Vista being a resource hog, it might run faster.

HAHA, I can't believe how many idiots there are out there, mainly writting a post here. First off, so what if there are different versions, get a job if you can't afford the good stuff. Second, ive never had any bugs with my computer using any OS, microsoft cant help that you can't run a pc and you browse porn all day to get virus's so quit complaining you morons and get a real PC that can run well, and last but not least, all my applications and games run SMOOTH on my pc, besides you couldn't beat me in any of them games anyways. QUIT CRYING BABYS

PS- INTEL SAVED APPLE (lets all applaud)

"Sleeps well in Seatttle," I agree with you.

There are a lot of Mac/Linux whiners in PCWorld.

I always will, and will continue to use Windows. Version by version, I went from Windows 3.1 to 95, 95 to 98, 98 to Me (Millennium Edition), and Me to Windows XP. I always enjoy Microsoft products and I have 100% no plans to switch to Linux/Mac any soon.

I think Microsoft would be better off having one home and one office version. Windows 98 allowed you to add/remove features as needed so you didn't have stuff on there that you never use, so why not have that option in Vista.

I probably won't buy Vista, because my computers will be to slow to run it (700 & 800mhz). I do use XP but the compatibility mode sucks on it. I ran Windows updates on one computer and my daughter's older learning programs quit working. I've added a second hard drive with Windows 98se so she can still use them, it was cheaper than going out and buying new learning programs that work with XP.

Maybe I should just get the VIC 20 out of the closet. From what everyone has said about Vista being a resource hog, it might run faster.

Mac OS, ain't all that. Sure it looks nice, but so what. I found it has annoying inconsistencies in its interface.

Linux, it just isn't ready for novices.

Every single user who uses a computer for the first time is a NOVICE.

If the NOVICE wants a PC he will not get Linux simply because its free. He might get a MAC cos its "easy to use", but most likely, he will be thinking "what software / games can I run on this PC, hmm, I think I'll buy a windows PC so I can run xxx & yyy and my mate has this lush game he plays on-line & I'm gonna play against him etc etc".

We need an alternative.

Yes I use Windows (XP), and for all its issues, it is for the most part stable & definitely runs more software than MAC or LINUX.

Yes I have ran with Linux & MAC OSX (I try as many as I can in the hope I can find something better AND cheaper)

My point...
Windows Vista WILL succeed & unfortunately, cost us more money.

My requirement...
As a family man with kids & wife wanting / using / needing a PC, It has become VERY EXPENSIVE to keep up-to-date.
I require one of the following:
1. Windows Vista - Family version (up to 4 installations)
2. Mac OS XI - Windows friendly Family addition
3. WinMacLin - Ultimate inter-op edition.

I'm dreaming, I know, but until that time, I'm either gonna have to resort to pirate copies of VISTA to keep up-to-date, learn something not ready (Linux), move to MAC (more expense + learning curve + windows incompatibility) or live with what I've got (soon to be obsolete) Grrrrrrrrreat!.

HAHA, I can't believe how many people are complaining out there, mainly writting a post here. First off, so what if there are different versions, get a job if you can't afford the good stuff. Second, ive never had any bugs with my computer using any OS, microsoft cant help that you can't run a pc and you browse porn all day to get virus's so quit complaining and get a real PC that can run well, and last but not least, all my applications and games run SMOOTH on my pc, besides you couldn't beat me in any of them games anyways. QUIT CRYING "ITS OK"

PS- INTEL SAVED APPLE (lets all applaud)

Have Microsoft lost the plot it seems that they are no longer(as if ever!) in touch with the needs of the paying public. When will this monopoly ever listen to us.

I believe this is a very smart play. The market is highly fragmented and you need to tightly focus your product to the specific needs of the consumer. This also provides them with multiple performance price-points. In the end, the user will have an OS that works best in their situation and provides the best value to them. They are not purchasing features and services that they will not need.

all i have to say is Microsoft really f**ked up this time. With the way microsoft is you will have to get Vista to even run any new programs and since is a new OS what about all the old trusty programs that may not work... 2 words "Come On"

Multiple versions! Arrgh! I too was in computer sales for many years. The amount of energy and time it took to ?educate? the customer made the whole sales process extremely monotonous and time consuming. I?m now working on the development and support side of things and from a corporate point of view; again this is going to make things complicated.
If MS is really intent on this trajectory, I hope that with the ?neutered? versions, there?s an option to simply upgrade/add the missing features and pay the difference. In this day and age of high-speed connectivity, this would at least allow most people to go with the basic option and then upgrade as required. Lastly, I really hope that the core-OS is exactly the same, regardless of which version is installed.

Its so amazing how people are rooted into tradition, religion is one thing, but XP has only been around for 6 years or so. I used windows for my whole life, I just got a mac, now ill never go back. And when its time for my family to get new computers, they'll get macs too. Its not like you have to learn a new language, MAc OS is way more intuitive, and simple. The problem is that people get used to their windows' flaws and they put up with them instead of taking a small chance on another OS.

Microsoft Does Stuff, people complain, then they buy their products anyway. How smart are they?

Well, Im glad they put everthing inthe ultimate version, now I am guarenteed to have everything when I download it off the internet for free, get the tech support for free and laughing at microsoft's pathedic attempt at anti-piracy.

Or you may just get Linux for free, without the piracy.

Those who have a pirated version of Windows are fools!

If I am a police I'd sue you all and send you all to prison! :)

Horrible idea, should only be 4 versions
32 and 64bit. home and business

Sounds like a marketing scheme to get more confused buyers to buy the wrong product and hopefully that wrong product is the more expensive one.

Personally, i think that giving consumers three choices instead of two is going to make them feel that it's safe for them to choose the middle option, instead of feeling like they have a choice between more than they need and less than they need.

I'll be more than happy to upgrade to dual boot vista and xp when the time comes; i'll just enroll in a computer science course at my university, and get whichever version i want free through MSDN.

I understand almost all the views expressed here, however, there are many prejudices that I have observed here.

I, myself, run a linux server, dual boot fc3/XP on my other computer, and have a gaming XP computer. I have no macs. I would like to acquire one however.

Each operating system presented here has its uses. Anyone who says a particular one sucks obviously has a biased behavior. I will give an overview here:

Windows -- the Default OS installed on computers. Most consumers don't know what the hell the "start button" is, so you can't expect them to be all savvy. This is basically a nessecity for games, sadly, but there are consoles. :D. XBox IS Microsoft though, btw. Nothing against it though. Windows is good for the elementary users and such, and games.

Most businesses rely on windows, because windows and its products are well marketed and in-your-face like, and each program is funded by rich corporations. It isn't true that linux or mac suck for business, it just is true Windows is more common.
It is completely ridiculous to have 6 versions of Windows. Definately. Cliche: "2 versions is good" but yes, it is. Without giving me a load of bullshit, please explain to me why we need 6 versions.

Linux is a free OS, best in the world IMO, but still. Most games don't seem to want to run on the emulators and such, and there are faults. Many programs I am used to on windows aren't on Linux. hence the dual boot. Windows generally has a prettier interface too, but that is completely fixable. Linux IS free, but most people don't know what it is. Linux is definately best for servers and internet related things. Unix was the old internet server base, and linux is "unix done right" afterall.
Generally, people say: "WTF LINUX HAS LOTS OF VERSIONS TOO!" but look:
Each linux distro is free, runs differently, even has a different GUI, focus on different tasks, are powerful, slower, whatever. They are DIFFERENT.
not the basically-the-same-thing-just-murdered different versions of windows.

Mac has its strong points too. It has a beautiful interface, and everything flows together extremely well, including not only the design and looks, but the programs and OS. Many people are used to OS9 and below, which IMO DID suck. They just won't give OSX a chance. Mac has great programs with it, there is one distribution, and it has none of the "trials" and crap that microsoft gives you.

Basically, I'd say that Linux or Mac > Windows, but thats not entirely true. I don't much like Microsoft, but I still don't deny they must at least have SOMETHING going for them.

"I have to agree with a prior poster when he wrote, "Build a system a fool can use and only a fool with use it." There's not much better way to describe the endless drivel spouted by such users. After all, it's Apple--so simple, so easy to use, built just... for fools."

You realize you goofs are all just mechanics for Bill's lemon. If your an IT drone, then of course you will follow your Dark Lord - It's your bloody job. My job is to give my clients great desings, not use troubleshoot the damn computer or fight with IT folk who always have a bad attitude!

Well I will most likely "try" out the Windows Vista Ultimate a few months or so after it comes out. But for now, I'll stick with my Windows XP as it works fine and have never had a virus (can't think of any problems, other than needing to update graphic card drivers).

I find if you have a good system and don't go to those warez sites and install and uninstall all over the place without a defrag- you should be fine. I'm also a gamer so there's another reason I love my PC.

As for those who love to bash Windows and cheer for the Mac- I have (and do) use a Mac (OSX) and I still prefer Windows XP. With a Mac, I have had the programs do some rather weird things and the thing plain out right crashes quite a few times. It's pretty but it has it's fault all the same.

Stupid Stupid Stupid

I completely agree with remarks about Microsoft not being Baskin Robbins.
It should be pretty simple.
Have 2 versions of the OS (one for business and one for home)
Each install should just come with a wizard. Ask questions about what a person wants and what he doesnt, and accordingly, setup the windows components and services to be automated or manual.

And then even if its a bloated OS, not everything needs to run on the system

When will Microsoft try to make it easier for the consumers?

I am proud owner of a tablet pc and have been hoping to upgrade to Vista but retain tablet functionality. They include these funtionalities because Media Center and Tablet PC editions were made just now and therefore have no previous versions. They want to include this because it's just plain stupid not to. Existing owners would have a heck of a time trying to track an upgrade. Users shouldn't be confused by this because they won't have a tablet pc because this can just be easily explained to them. Besides, why should we tablet users be left in the dark? It would add to the confusion if they released it seperately instead of in the higher versions because most people who buy tablets know a thing or two about computers.

I seem to agree with those two version proponents home and business with
all the separate optional features installation.
Make that 4 versions....32 and 64bit. BTW
anybody else experiencing the new SBC,
disallowing its users FTP access to their directories? Instead disuading users to use a
web interface. Just great! Carriers dictating to consumers and web developers who are under threat by ISP based web page builders, now they are denying us FTP access, including our normal settings in programs we use for FTP, which include HTML editors.

I seem to agree with those two version proponents home and business with
all the separate optional features installation.
Make that 4 versions....32 and 64bit. BTW
anybody else experiencing the new SBC,
disallowing its users FTP access to their directories? Instead disuading users to use a
web interface. Just great! Carriers dictating to consumers and web developers who are under threat by ISP based web page builders, now they are denying us FTP access, including our normal settings in programs we use for FTP, which include HTML editors. And why are other ISP's still charging 4 times as high for the same tier packages offered by SBC/AT&T? Maybe those ISP's need to merger against this giant monopoly.

Hi all,
Why bother with too many version of upcoming MS Windows OS? It's just a marketing strategy.....take it or leave it...
I use to hate Microsoft but hey....everybody can use computer easily, thanks to Bill.
To Bill Gate: Why don't you do something valuable like Ubuntu Founder, Mark Shuttleworth. Turn down the price, make your software affordable to majority of people in the world.

Seems like I found the right blog for a nerd riot

I read only a few comments and they all appeared to be concerned about confusing the consumer. I don't understand why this is the problem, as this has been microsoft's sategy since it's conception. Confuse consumers, cloud their judgement, and just end up telling them "this is the right way". Most computer illiterate people won't question a big company like microsoft. They're once again screwing the IT industry and consumers with it. Thank you Billy Gates.

Cut to the chase... Use Linux!
;)

I use Win2K... and Linux..

nuff said..

people have windows to play games as well understanding a fairly basic interface.

i've used mac and all the icons are all over the place...easy to use but very confusing when i started as i'm used whole windows interface.
Linux i havn't used but from what i've seen, the interface looks confusing but not as confusing as mac.

The only reason windows is pretty-much on the top of the computer OS monopoly is that they're the only OS to support almost every single computer game and program...if games where supportable on other OS, gamers like me would definately change to Mac or Linux.

gamers pretty much make up the computer user population....listen to them...haha.

*as well as understanding a fairly basic interface.
*as i'm used to the whole windows interface.

sorry about the previous errors..didn't use spell check and i never checked meself....lol >.<

lmao read all these junk post (its simple realy...)get ultimate an be done with it... lol
(tho i bet it would be like a grand or 2 lol ) microsoft allways overcharges... (we could all coo and not buy any (then they will fall on there face and have to bow to us...) and make what we realy wont (A WORKING OPERATING SYSTEM)

It's real simple people. Get Linux and be done with the evil Microsoft Empire!!!

I think folks may be missing a point. I doubt Microsoft wants to really do this, but by selling various combos at different price points they may be avoiding the "monolopolistic" practice of giving things away by bundling them into the operating system. They have been backed into this corner in order to really offer what many people want - an all inclusive operating system.

Bob's post makes since. The many versions that we are seeing are ridiculous at best. The folks at Microsoft must have some reasoning behind doing the fragmentation of the OS. Staying out of the courtroom paying millions to competitors would be the only thing that could convince me to offer so many pointless versions.

Ridiculous, just ridiculous. Thats all I have to say.

I will buy Vista Ultimate when I get it regardless of it's cost I think unless it cost just plain too much. I have done this with each new version of Windows in the past, usually on the first day it was available. I also installed the beta version as soon as I could get it to be sure I could run on the official version. So now I want a beta version of ultimate -- what do I have to do to get it? BTW, my computer is an AMD 64 bit with dual core, so I want the 64 bit version.

one thing BILLY BOY KISS-KISS-KISS
& KISS SOMEMORE

Frankly, as a former Sysadmin for a mixed Apple/PC network, I think I'm gonna stick with my W2K Pro and just laugh when someone asks me which Vista to buy. This has to be the biggest fubar since Pearl Harbor. I would advise dumping MS stock and buying Silver. This looks like Bill's boys and girls have just gone right over the edge and they're taking the rest of the PC segment with them. Anyone know where I can get a copy of Win 3.1

Just let me choose what I want to run or not run at boot time and not run all those cryptic named files in the background! I don't always want to be connected to the internet. I don't always want my machine constantly doing things in the background that I don't even understand! Give me back control of my machine! Oh for the old days of DOS & Win 3.0 and before. Now I've no idea what the heck is going on -- except it no longer does what I want it to do. And now a zillion more automatically loaded unwanted "features"? Come on Mr. Gates -- KISS!

I would like to try Windows Vista here on my Windows XP Home Edition computer. I would like the details of how I may run a Vista to try its programs.

I don't know what the heck Microsoft if trying to pull but all this version crap has gone to far. How the heack would a beginner know what version to pick. How would you upgrade? And what version has computer maufactures going to put on their computers? I however, do agree with the low end version of Windows in develpoing parts of the world.

Choice is a wonderful thing, its makes the marketplace go. However, consumers must educate themselves as to which OS fits their needs.

I would have to agree with some of the comments here...just two versions instead of "31 flavors". I might upgrade if the security of my XP Home ever falls below par but with second sources providing anti-virus and firewall solutions, why even worry about upgrading at all!

As a custom computer builder, it is enough to help people through their confusion when buying a new or first computer and explain the advantages of one component over another. After reading about Vista, I am confused on what OS I might want for myself and so how can I help my customers? Do I have to buy all of them to try so that I have a better idea myself? Granted people want affordability, but at what price in features for the basic? As it stands, there are people who don?t want to give up Win?98 in favor of XP, so how does Microsoft expect these people to jump on the Vista bandwagon? KISS goes a long way! Maybe they would be better off just re-working XP into a viable OS, which brings me to?whatever happened to Longhorn? Perhaps Vista should travel the same road and Microsoft should go back to the drawing board. Some have suggested a basic OS with add on modules. This to me makes sense. When one builds a house, you start with a foundation and add on as the need arises.

Vista does look promising, but I agree with the oher folks who think that all the different versions are ludicrous.

Vista sounds good. I'm looking forward to it and if I can afford it, I'd like to go in for the ultimate. But it won't be soon because I need to know howmuch beta testing MS will be doing. I don't want to buy Vista and get into an SP1 and Sp2 situation like I did with XP Pro. Unless I am sure, I guess I'd wait for between six to twelve months after the releas befor going in for it.

I need to be assured that all my XP Home stuff will work in one of the Vista versions.

Its all about money. With 31 flavours Microsoft is trying to expand there market and nothing else. They just don't care what the user wants. What ever they do they does it on pressure!!!

After reading all the postings, I say, that I don't believe the stories of Windows users stating they never had any problems.
I did use Windows since 3.1, so I know that is IMPOSSIBLE. It looks like XP was the last one.
I think I will give MAC a try,

i think microsoft is trying to hit a differant target of consumers, all the kids know how to use a pc and fix them and all that. i mean think about your parents or grandparents and they know nothing about computers, would you want them to be running xp pro! heck NO! thats why you give them home basic. what the diff. versions is a great idea! and for allt he sales people im sorry for you, but you have to change just as tech does. if they don't knwo anything about computers then they shouldn't be getting one

This topic scares me as a developer - how will I ever really know who can run my products? Will my office computer now stop talking to my home computer or laptop? This all scares me. This is not a discussion of linux or Mac but Windows - I run them all. Not the issue here. Sell a disk with basic, during the install click on any additional features you wish to have. Have a shopping cart keep track of additional costs. Pay for what you use. Need something later - put in CD and add wht you missed (with any additional caost if necessary). Easy, no fears, no lost customers, less theft of product to replace something that was hamstrung.

MS what the HELL are you doing?!

Aren't you making this over complex? WHy not have 1 version, 'WINDOWS" and depending on the license key you buy (for which you choose options from a list) depends on what gets enabled, and you can come back and add more stuff for a price at a later date, if you not relise you needed .NET support (etc etc)

Just my 2p worth :)

If the new Basic Version is indeed so basic that I can teach my 65 yr old neighbor (who has never touched a computer) how to use one, then I am all for these new ideas. If, on the other hand, my poor neighbor is just as out of luck as he is now, then I say this is the dumbest thing that has happened since AT&T lost the war.

This is just depressing...with all the power available in today's PCs, the whole package - choosing them, using them, connecting them, etc. - should be getting simpler.

Damn MicroSoft for making me spend more of my short life on studying "which OS?" to buy...and then worrying I made the wrong choice and will have to waste more of my hard earned cash to get the functionality I wanted.

Since I will inevitably have to undertake this ever more complex effort, I will now, for the first time in my life, SERIOUSLY consider the whole range of options: hello Apple Mac, hello Linux...no longer does MicroSoft win my business by default.

Stupid move Billy...from the looks of this forum, I am not the only one.

hmm ice cream...lol do they have it in double chocolate fudge flavor? i dont want plain vanilla

rofl..

Again Microsoft confuses everybody with dosages of performance that no one really needs. As a staunch supporter of open source software I can't understand why should you pay to get confused, and in a while be out of support. I started using Linux and have been clear about one thing: I don't need, nor want, any of Gates wares...they are just too bad for the price they charge.

I'm with most of the posts here, 6 to 12 versions is way too many. Studies have shown that, given more choice, people don't choose any! I think Microsoft has shot themselves in the foot with this. I think there will be some very popular versions and then others that are very slow to sell. No doubt, there will be many of those computer challenged that will buy the wrong system for their needs and bad mouth MS.

12 variations of Vista, Umm ..... Which is the one that will actualy work?

In retail sales, there are only three choices people make, and they are:
1. The cheapest price.
2. In middle. Don't want cheap & nasty, but can't afford premium.
3. Only the best, most expensive for me.

People will change between these three whenever it suits them, or circumstances allow. Smart retailers cover all three.

Note: It's only the price that's different. Products can be very similar. In Supermarkets, Home Brand would be 1. A brand box but with little advertising would be 2. And a product where you are paying for heavy advertising would be 3.

In the old days there would be a fourth, and that would be home made. For example a cup white vinegar in a bucket of hot water is the best recipe for cleaning a floor, and doesn't leave a chemical residue.

People become disorientated if presented with more than three choices. And that's a FACT Jack!

Intelligent persons; who investigate, read,learn, and utilize the info, are the ones who can make decisions on which system protocol they want to employ...... there are a myriad of avenues for which information is available. on the internet, through programs, through PCWORLD. And through the blogs I just read...no one person is RIGHT. it comes down to, with the info -- the software that you own,-- and your ability to USE WHAT YOU HAVE... don't fuss about something such as VISTA, until it is finalized.

Oh, god sake. Do they have to have all these versions? If they keep on doing that, I suppose the next next version of Windows will have two-hendred and eighty-two versions!

Choice is indeed a good thing, but too much choice is downright confusing and very stressful for the newbie, The big question is how safe and reliable are all these different OS, and what about support?.....MICROSOFT NEEDS TO KISS...ALOT.

I see it like this:

Vista home-B: XP Home * 2
Vista Home-P: xp pro * 2
Vista ultimate: Xp pro * 10
Vista starter: XP home -10

Hi there Apple Mac and Linux! I've never really looked at you before but lately you are starting to look really sexy....I MEAN HOT. I believe that my loyalty is being taken advantage of, and on numerous occasion I have been left all alone with no support at all. I used to be happy but now iam not and I don't feel safe anymore. Now iam being pressured into making all this new decisions thats not fair......(excuse me while i gather myself)..I THINK IT'S ALL OVER BECAUSE OF THEIR WAY OF BEING VERY CONTROLLING AND DOMINANT......I WILL BE YOURS SOON (AS SOON AS I CAN DECIDE BETWEEN YOU BOTH) AND YOU WOULD NOT REGRET IT.

I'm sure Microsoft had good intentions in mind when developing vista. The different versions are there for customization purposes, however I think they could of gone from 2 versions of xp, to one version of vista and offered add-ons instead of the different versions. People have different needs and those needs change from time to time, add-ons would have been the way to go. This way, everyone would initially have the same version.

As a windows xp user who has applied the vista pack to my system, i can say i am happy with the appearance of vista , the transformation pack also changed a number of system files which seems to have made my system faster and more stable. but alas microsott u r really going out on a limb with all these versions. as a computer technician i will have the inevitalbe long conversations with customers trying to work out what they want ,what the need and will it be right for them. please only 2 wersions - home and business - both with the media centre applications (who said business didn't need this?) put everything into them both and let the installer decide via options whether it is required or not like linux versions or windows 9x

I can see I'm late with my response. But it appears 90% or better are correct. Why does a company as strong as Microsoft just muddy up the water. I am not an expert or a salesman but I pity both who have to try to untangle this mess. TO: Microsoft. GO back and find out what the public really wants. Someone said KISS and I completely agree.

Because MS can and will. Not only that people will continue to buy their product. Until the consumer wises up and collectively decides not to be bullied into this sort of marketing then it will continue.

Simply put with this scheme MS will make a killing. And Grandma Betty & Grandpa Joe won't know what the hell they are getting as long as its a working PC they buy. Nor will they care. People in this country have become so complacent and ignorant of computers and actively choose to be that way that software/hardware companies in the industry will continue to take advantage of them until people start to cry out and get the ball rolling for change.

Being a PC gamer I can see us getting more of the shaft than any other group of people PC Gamers tend to also be enthusiasts as well. I love XP Pro. If there was a version in Vista that does what Pro does and improves on it without going over the current price point of XP Pro they could count me in. But from what I'm seeing anyone wanting what Pro does now will need to get the Enterprise version. The other underlying factor I see here is security. So if you know what you are buying you'll buy the higer end because that one contains all the decent security.

In the end this only shows that MS is hurting to keep a presence in this area. They are trying all these funky ideas that get them no where. Google is coming MS, you can't postpone what is to come.

Why is everyone griping, no one is forcing u to buy vista, its just that u want the latest and greatest, we are all spoiled.

Until they force me or try to, then i'll become concerned.

Microsoft has the right to try and sell its product its a company.

Get the OS that fits u and stay with it.

Why gripe at Bill Gates, he's just a spokesman really as I see it that he has NO say on the OS. Its those below/above him.. Don't gripe at Bill he didn't do anything against u... :) Just give ur review/thought in a nice way and say its good ands bads and that's it, not bash. Should i hate u 'cause ur a MAC user or a linux user? Should u hate me..

All computers are basically the same and its only the OS that lets u use it more effectively and controls the I/O of the system.. :) Don't let the Operating System make u its slave, aren't u suppose to be the master of the virtual world, or has the virtual world became master of u. :)

I work at CompUSA, and when people come in to buy a PC, they are almost always looking for a PC with XP Pro. Even if they are only using this PC for miniscule tasks, they still want the pro version.

The fact is though, that most of these consumers don't even know the difference between the 2 versions.
With 5 different versions of what seems to be the same operating system, people will no longer know what they want at all, and will become a large burdon on the shoulders of the reatailers to try to figure out the differences for themselves, so they may be able to explain these differences to the customer.

Truely I see it as more of a burdon than a blessing. If they want to have all sorts of features in Vista, fine. And the low end version for poor countries or whatever, that's cool. But other than that, keep it to 2, maybe 3 versions and let people buy a computer without being totally confused about it before even openning the box

2d to 3d can we affoed it?hefty hardware requirmentsfor vista .I think that latest verson of windows os benfits hardware vwndors only.I think that microsoft shoud consider decison made by majority of computer users and make vista to be more user friendli not money friendly

well windows vista surly will be the same price as the windows xp that people got now. i just dont now why microsoft has to have differnt types of windows vista because they will all have the same softwear on them. i just dont now why they have done it probs they want more money

don't buy for the first year. I see another windows ME coming. if you count up all the versions (including 32/64 bit and european) you are looking at around 16 different versions. How the hell are comp techs supposed to know all of them, let alone consumers.