Microsoft has decided to extend the life of Windows XP, although only for low end computers.

Michael Dix, general manager of Windows client marketing stated that Microsoft will give PC makers the option of using Windows XP or Vista on “ultra-low-cost PCs, (ULCPC).”

Dix said that Microsoft is confident that it can discontinue Windows XP at the end of June for mainstream computers. “We have received affirming feedback from partners that they are ready to make the transition,” he said.

Computer makers will now be able to sell XP Home on new ULCPC machines until June 30, 2010, or one year after the launch of the next major release of Windows, currently code named Windows 7, whichever is later

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