However, an extended Windows XP lifecycle gives Redmond more time to maneuver and opens the door for Longhorn to debut in early 2006.Ī 2006 release date puts almost five years between Microsoft's consumer operating system releases, following the launch of Windows XP in 2001. Microsoft executives previously targeted late 2004 for a release to manufacturing and planned to have Longhorn on store shelves by mid-2005. It is unclear how the delay will affect the next version of Windows, code-named Longhorn. PC Satisfaction extends the native functionality of Windows XP with services such as an enhanced firewall and virus scanner that give customers a better Windows experience out of the box.Īlthough Microsoft has not yet announced how it plans to issue PC Satisfaction in its final form, the company hinted that a new firewall would be enabled by default in the next Windows XP update. One such potential feature is Microsoft's PC Satisfaction package, currently in beta testing. "It's possible that Microsoft is preparing a more substantive-than-usual service pack that would add new features to Windows XP or hybrids Media Center and Tablet PC," said Wilcox.
A yearlong delay gives Microsoft significant time to further its integration strategy with Windows XP – building more components directly into the operating system.
The possible implications of the move are far reaching. "This is a much longer cycle than between Windows 2000 service pack releases." "Third quarter next year would put anywhere from 18 to 24 months between the first two service packs," Joe Wilcox, senior analyst for Jupiter Research, told BetaNews. The change in plans came to light by way of Microsoft's Product Lifecycle Web site, which details future support timelines for the company's products. SP2 was long expected to debut before the end of 2003, one year after SP1 made the rounds. In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft has pushed back the release date for the second Windows XP service pack to the third quarter of 2004.
UPDATE Microsoft has confirmed that Windows XP Service Pack 2 will ship in 2004.
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