What's the deal with budget Windows Vista?

Andy Merrett Computers
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I’ve just been reading that the budget / entry-level features of Windows XP Starter Edition will be transferred to Windows Vista. Now, I hadn’t appreciated what a cut-down system XP SE was, and to be honest I just don’t get it.

I have no problem with offering a simplified operating system for lower-spec PCs – after all a full-blown Vista is going to need a seriously beefy system – but I don’t understand how some of the restrictions help novice users.

For example, what’s the deal with limiting the number of applications open at one time to three? I could be mean about Windows reliability track record here, but I won’t. How is that benefiting users?

And what about restricting other features like maximum screen resolution, home networking, user accounts, and such like? Why not release the full Vista version but have a simplified mode so that users can unlock features at a later date, rather than having a different restricted version?

I know these products are aimed at ’emerging markets’ and those with less powerful systems – the new Vista will be available in 79 languages which is great – but it still feels somehow stingy. What do you think?

Andy Merrett
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One thought on “What's the deal with budget Windows Vista?”

  • Hmm, you have obviously missed the point somewhere. The average company doesnt release products to help users. They do it to make money. Vista restrict your amount of open programs, to give you a reason to pay shitloads for the better one.

    All of the limits are there simply to put you off and have you buy a better version.

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