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(a) whether the Government is aware that MICROSOFT sells stripped down versions of WINDOWS XP in Thailand at very low prices;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has any plans to ask the MICROSOFT to follow similar practice here; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of MICROSOFT in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(DR.SHAKEEL AHMAD)
(a) and (b): Yes, Sir. Microsoft has unveiled XP Starter Edition in Thailand. Windows XP Starter Edition is
designed to offer affordability and easy-to-use entry level points to the Windows family of products, tailored
to local country, in local languages, and is compatible with wide range of Windows-based applications and devices.
(c) and (d): The Microsoft Windows XP Starter Edition, has already been unveiled in Delhi in September, 2 0 04. XP Starter
Edition for India includes a Hindi interface, and is scheduled for an early 2005 launch. The features of the XP Starter
Edition are enclosed at Annexure.
Annexure Features of Windows XP Starter Edition include:
Localized and tailored support: Windows XP Starter Edition features a redesignated help system called My
Support, which includes a built-in, detailed Getting Started Guide. In addition, Windows XP Starter Edition
comes with a supplemental CD that contains local language instructional videos designed specifically for first
time PC users.
Localized customization: With Windows XP Starter Edition, users can choose from country-specific wallpapers and
screensavers with familiar landscapes, flags and geography-specific traditional design.
Preconfigured settings: Windows XP Starter Edition will help reduce confusion regarding setup options for
entry-level users by preconfiguring advanced settings and enabling the Windows Firewall by default.
Simplified task management: With Windows XP Starter Edition, first-time home users can have up to three
programs and three windows per program running concurrently. Further simplification of operating system includes
the display resolution set to 800x600 maximum and no support for PC-to-PC home networking, sharing printers across
a network or more advanced features such as the ability to establish multiple user accounts on a single PC.
Windows XP Starter Edition System requirements: Desktop with a Celeron, Duron, Geode, Sempron or similar
processors, 233 MHz processor clock speed required and 300MHz or higher recommended. Supports up to 128MB RAM
and Hard disk space of maximum of 40 GB, and supports Super VGA 800x600 resolution VGA adapter and monitor.