Despite research that found Vista uptake among businesses is slowing, Michael Dell has predicted that most companies will migrate to the OS within two years.
Facing a 30 June deadline to stop selling PCs with Windows XP, the world's largest computer makers are getting creative, with Dell and HP's Australian offices staying cagey about their intentions.
His name synonymous with the PC industry, Michael Dell this week made a fleeting visit to Australia to meet customers, employees and members of the media.
Thousands of Dell users have contacted a user forum to call for PCs to be shipped with a Linux operating system and the OpenOffice application suite.
Despite its big push for Vista, Microsoft is quietly allowing PC makers to offer an option that lets users "downgrade" to Windows XP, allowing customers to purchase new PCs but stick with the older operating system.
Not ready for a Vista laptop? Simply want to stick to good old XP? Here are your options on the market.
Although Microsoft is pushing hard to move everyone to the latest version of Windows, there are some market realities that are going to keep Windows XP around for some time likely well beyond the current June deadline for large computer makers to stop selling the older operating system.
Upgraded to Windows Vista, the Dell XPS M1210 is a pricey but powerful system for those who want a smaller laptop with few compromises.
The Dell Inspiron Mini 12 is a good size and features lots of storage, but is hampered by its sluggish performance and inability to stay on your lap.
Don't let the slim design and relatively light heft fool you. This XPS is one powerful gaming portable with an impressive feature set for work and play.
Ready to upgrade to a Windows Vista-compatible machine? We pick the top notebooks which are ready for Vista out of the box.
If you're in the market for a portable, the 1.78kg Dell XPS with its HDMI port and slot-loading DVD is both stylish and a pleasure to use.
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