While Microsoft has scheduled to stop supplying Windows XP through retail outlets and major OEM brands by the end of June 2008, Microsoft has decided to continue supplying Windows XP through Compucon New Zealand channel up to the end of January 2009.  There are 2 ways that customers can obtain Win XP in new Compucon systems during the transition period.

(a) Customer purchases Win XP as the OS of the Compucon System
(b) Customer purchases Win Vista Business or Ultimate as the OS of the Compucon System and exercises the downgrade right for Win XP Professional

Microsoft will continue to support Win XP up to the end of April 2014.  For more information on the support lifecycle, please see

http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?LN=en-gb&x=16&y=12&C2=1173

This space will clarify if the downgrade right will go past January 2009 or not.  We are waiting for Microsoft to confirm this and the result when known will replace this paragraph.