REDMOND, Wash., Aug 24 (Reuters) - Microsoft (MSFT) Corp. <MSFT.O> said development of its Windows XP operating system is now complete and that the software giant will present the final
version, or "gold code," to computer manufacturers on Friday.
Microsoft said Co-founder and Chairman Bill Gates and Group
Vice President Jim Allchin will give commemorative CDs
containing the final Windows XP software to representatives from
six major PC manufacturers on Friday.
The representatives will then depart Microsoft's
headquarters by helicopter to begin the final stages of
incorporating the new operating system into their computer
manufacturing systems.
The distribution of the final version of Windows XP to
computer makers is seen as an important milestone for the
software giant as it proceeds with plans to launch the new
product this fall amid calls by rivals for changes.
Windows XP, the latest version of Microsoft's flagship
product, is scheduled for widespread availability on October 25,
Microsoft said in a statement. Microsoft said it is continuing
to work closely with PC manufacturers to ensure their most
advanced hardware solutions will fully complement the new
operating system.
Industry observers have said Microsoft is also eager to get
Windows XP out of the door because it is facing increased calls
from rivals and privacy groups to change the product, which
integrates new features like instant messaging and online
authorization.
The complaints say such bundling of new services repeats the
kind of behaviour that landed Microsoft in hot water with the
U.S. Justice Department, which is locked in a drawn-out
antitrust battle with the company.
Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft said customers can
purchase a new "Windows XP Ready PC" today that meets the system
requirements for Windows XP, allowing them to upgrade to Windows
XP the day it ships.
Microsoft said in a statement a number of technology firms
gave their support for the product, including Dell Computer (DELL)
Corp. <DELL.O>, Gateway (GTW) Inc. <GTW.N>, Compaq Computer (CPQ) Corp.
<CPQ.N>, Hewlett-Packard (HWP) Co. <HWP.N> and International Business
Machines Corp. <IBM.N>.
Microsoft said the Windows XP Home Edition will be available
in an upgrade version for $99 estimated retail price and in a
standard version for $199. Windows XP Professional will be
available in an upgrade version for $199 and in a standard
version for $299.
