The software maker said that the Spanish-language Windows XP Starter Edition will be made available on new PCs starting immediately in Mexico and Argentina, with a goal of offering the OS throughout Latin America in the coming months. XP Starter Edition is similar to other flavors of Windows XP, but is offered only as part of new low-end PCs in developing countries. It also has some limitations, such as the ability to run only three programs simultaneously.
Windows XP Starter Edition is similar to other flavors of the operating system, but has some key changes.
• Starter Edition is sold only with a new PC.
• It is sold only in certain developing countries and only in the local language.
• The software can run only three programs simultaneously.
• Each program can open a maximum of three windows.
Source: Microsoft
What's the difference?
Among the companies partnering with Microsoft in Mexico are Intel, Advanced Micro Devices and Dell as well as Mexican telecom company Telmex and local computer makers Texa, Lanix and Hergo.
Microsoft is also working with Infonavit, a state-owned mortgage agency that helps low- and moderate-income Mexicans purchase homes. Under a new program, home buyers will be able to finance a PC by including its cost on a mortgage.
"It really becomes an incredible opportunity for folks in this income range to get a PC," said Adam Wolf, a product manager in Microsoft's Windows XP Starter Edition.
