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Microsoft to Launch XP Starter Edition in Mexico

Microsoft this week launched the seventh localized version of its low-cost, reduced-feature Windows XP Starter Edition designed for first-time PC buyers -- this one for Mexico.

The program is part of Microsoft's effort to increase its worldwide receipts for Windows in countries with low average household incomes where free or low-cost Linux distributions and pirated versions of Windows are formidable competitors.

The program was originally announced as a pilot program for five countries. The first three countries to be named, in August 2004, were Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Russia was next, followed by India. In April, Microsoft announced it was expanding the program to Brazil.

The Mexican edition is the first Spanish version of Windows XP Starter Edition. According to IDC, only 6 percent of Mexican homes have a PC.

Among the limitations on Windows XP Starter Edition users are a maximum of three programs running concurrently; a maximum of three windows per program open at the same time; a maximum screen resolution of 800x600; and no support for PC-to-PC home networking, sharing printers across a network or establishing more than one user account on a PC.

About the Author

Scott Bekker is editor in chief of Redmond Channel Partner magazine.

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