Microsoft said the new Windows XP Mode Release Candidate would streamline the migration process from XP to Windows 7 by "providing additional compatibility for older productivity applications". The software is aimed primarily at small and medium-sized businesses, it said.
It is compatible with the release candidate and release-to-manufacturing versions of Windows 7, as well as the forthcoming Professional and Ultimate retail versions, due for launch on Oct 22.
The software is important because it will allow Windows 7 users to run legacy applications from Windows XP using virtualisation tools, eliminating the need to upgrade proprietary or specialist software at great expense to ensure Windows 7 compatibility. Analysts say that providing a seamless upgrade path will be crucial for Microsoft if its new operating system is going to enjoy critical and commercial success. The switch from Windows XP to Windows 7's predecessor, Vista, was beset by compatibility issues, particularly with third-party plug-ins and drivers.
Windows XP Mode is a "virtualised" version of a Windows XP Service Pack 3, and Microsoft recommends that any security patches or software updates subsequently released for that version of XP are installed immediately on first use.
Third party manufacturers welcomed the release of the software. "Our customers expect their applications to simply work, regardless of their selected operating system," said Michelle Pearcy, director of global software marketing at Dell.
"Windows XP Mode provides them with the confidence to migrate to Windows 7 while maintaining access to mission-critical applications."
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