Microsoft is in a very festive mood now that the cut off date for Windows XP support is fast approaching. Microsoft is celebrating the death of XP with nagging notifications to XP users who have yet to update their PCs to Windows 8.1. The notifications will continue even after the April 8th deadline unless users deactivate the notifications.
Microsoft couldn't be happier that XP support is ending. After all, this is the perfect opportunity for Microsoft to promote Windows 8.1. Windows 7 is no longer readily available, even though you can find it in some stores and Windows XP will no longer be safe once Microsoft stops issuing updates and support to XP users. The way Microsoft sees is, you have two options: Buy Windows 8.1 or buy Windows 8.1. Whether you buy just the software or a new PC, you will still be buying Windows 8.1 and let's face it, Windows 8.1 is expensive.
Of course, XP users could just update their current PC's software to Windows 8.1 and save a bit of money that way, but there is one tiny problem. Windows 8.1 can only be installed on PCs with certain specifications and most PCs that are still running XP probably don't have the necessary hardware to support the Windows 8.1 update.
Essentially, if XP users want to have a secure PC, they'll have to buy a brand-new Windows 8 PC. For Microsoft, this is fantastic news. Windows 8 devices aren't selling too well and the company really needs to make more money on the OS to prove that it wasn't a total failure. However, it's not exactly ideal for customers who are looking to save a buck or two. Windows 8 PCs are, in general, quite expensive, especially the touchscreen ones, which are the best-suited to the new touch-based part of the OS. There are cheaper options for would-be Windows 8 users, but they are certainly not the best options.
Windows XP users will be directed to Microsoft's Windows XP End of Support website, where they will find instructions and advice about what to do now the XP support is about to end. Although the website does list buying the Windows 8.1 software for your current PC, it certainly puts more of an emphasis buying a new PC. It even includes a helpful link to help you find your "perfect PC." The post concludes with a big promotional section, which highlights the advantages of Windows 8.1 over Windows XP.
