Windows XP Released to OEMs

To ensure the general availability of Windows XP on Oct. 25, 2001, Microsoft has completed development and testing of the new operating system and has released it to computer manufacturers. The company has also announced suggested pricing. OEMs are expected to start preinstalling the new operating systems on computers immediately, as Microsoft has already given them permission to ship systems with Windows XP prior to the general availability date. Software retailers will not be selling Windows XP shrink-wrapped full product or upgrades until the general availability date in October.

Microsoft will offer Windows XP, which is based on the Windows 2000 code base, in two slightly different versions that target different users. Windows XP Home is the follow-on product for Windows 95, 98, and ME, and targets the consumer market with a simplified security model that supports fast user switching and a personal firewall. However, PCs running Home cannot be members of a Windows 2000 or NT 4.0 domain. Windows XP Professional, the follow-on product for Windows 2000 Professional, does support domain membership and also provides business features such as remote assistance and remote desktop connection. Both versions include a streamlined user interface and improved application compatibility over Windows 2000. (For a detailed overview of both products, see “Making the Call on Windows XP” on page 8 and “Windows XP at Home” on page 9 of the May 2001 Update.)