Dell announced yesterday that they will continue to offer Windows XP to customers even after the official June 30 cutoff date. The same announcement was made by Hewlett-Packard.

The companies based their strategies on a clause in the downgrade rights, which refers to Vista Ultimate and Vista Business. These two are the only ones that come with downgrade rights, which means that consumer machines cannot be sold in a similar manner.

Microsoft’s official statement explained the situation: "Downgrade rights allow customers to acquire the most recent version of Microsoft software but continue to run a previous version until ready to upgrade."

The time needed for adjustement to the new system is connected to the fears and complaints related to Vista’s resource requirements, compatibility issues with older systems or applications and also intrusive security features, people feeling much more comfortable with their familiar, less complicated and dependable systems.

In order for this plan to work, some of Microsoft’s terms and guidelines must be taken into account. Apparently, the only way retailers can sell a PC with the XP downgrade is if the customer specifically demands it.

This week, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer announced that they would consider the extension of Windows XP’s life if there will be enough positive user feedback. At this point, the sales deadline remains June 30 for all major computer makers.

According to Microsoft, after June’s shutdown, the system will be introduced to a different market, which deals with the ultra-low cost PCs and is expected to bring significant income for the company.