When Microsoft first released Windows Vista, there was talk of fading out XP.  As word got out about the problems with Vista, some people decided to stay with XP for a little while longer.  Microsoft heard such and uproar about fading out XP that they decided to push back the end-of-sales date.  Well, that day has finally come.

On June 30th, 2008, Microsoft will stop selling Windows XP.  This means that you will no longer be able to buy XP as a stand-alone product at a store or from major PC manufacturers like Dell and HP.

Of course it will take months for places like Dell and HP to sell all the copies of XP in their inventory.

If you refuse to upgrade to Windows Vista and want to get your hands on a copy of XP, you might be in luck.  Local PC makers known as “system builders” will continue to sell computers with XP pre-installed until January 2009.  Also, ultra-low cost PCs (ULCPC) will still be allowed to carry Windows XP Home Edition until June 2010.

If you are worried about Windows XP support, you still have some time before it runs out.  Microsoft will stop supporting XP in April 2009.  If you have pay for Microsoft “Extended” support, you will be covered through 2014.

For more information:
The Future of Windows XP
Microsoft Support Cycle

Do you wish Microsoft would have delayed the end-of-sales for XP just one more time??? Let us know in the comments.