In Brief: Microsoft takes Windows XP Starter Edition to Brazil (InfoWorld)

InfoWorld - Microsoft on Wednesday plans to announce it will offer a simplified and lower-priced version of Windows XP in Brazil. Microsoft already said it will offer the product in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Russia, and India. The software is not sold in boxed versions, but installed on cheap PCs designed for first time PC users. Windows XP Starter Edition is part of Microsoft's efforts to take on the growing threat of Linux and piracy, which is common in developing markets. The limited, cheaper version offers localized support and customization options, preconfigured settings, and simplified task management. The starter OS lacks support for advanced features such as home networking, sharing printers across a network, or the ability to establish multiple user accounts on a single PC. It also limits the number of applications that can run at a time to three. Analysts at Gartner have dismissed it, saying it fails to meet the most basic needs of users. Brazil is one of the countries where open source has been getting traction, with the government promoting Linux products. Microsoft did not say when the Brazilian version of Windows XP Starter Edition will be available.

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