So Long Windows XP

Wire

With Microsoft finally pulling the plug on its long surviving Windows XP operating system (OS), and therefore fully stopping its support of the OS, it may sound like it is abandoning its users. Users of Microsoft Office 2003 can closely relate as Microsoft is also carrying out similar actions to halt all product and service support for the productivity suite.

Microsoft and its partners during the Windows XP Send-Off event

As both are key platforms that many businesses need to get any work done, Microsoft, along with Intel, TM and various ICT vendors, have teamed up to increase the adoption of newer systems that are capable enough to support the new OS.

“This program, which will be on from 1 April to 30 June 2014, is designed to encourage all sorts of businesses to move away from an aging platform that will no longer receive any support. I think that is a clear sign of the times to consider some new systems to use,” says Norhizam Kadir, National Sales Manager, Intel Malaysia.

According to Microsoft Malaysia, the ‘Good Bye XP, Good Buy Windows 8’ Trade-in Program is an exclusive deal specifically made for small- and medium-sized (SME) business owners to give them the opportunity to trade-in their old notebooks or desktops so they can purchase a brand new Windows equipped, Intel powered devices at special promotional prices. They just need to bring along their latest TM bill – be it UniFi, Streamyx or any other TM service – to any of TM’s ongoing TM SME BizFiesta and TM SME BizFest roadshows. Businesses can also go to all TMPoint outlets to make enquiries and sign up for the deal during the three month campaign period.

Click to enlarge pictures

“With Windows XP, and Office 2003, not receiving any more support from Microsoft, it is critical that those currently on the older platform make the switch soon. This is why we are announcing this partnership with TM and Intel to encourage users, particularly SMEs, to trade-in their older machines for new ones through this program. At the end of the day, SMEs can continue to be confident of the technology expertise and resources that we and our partners provide as we work towards taking care of their ICT needs while they focus on their business,” says Azizah Ali, Director, Small and Medium Solutions and Partners, Microsoft Malaysia.

Those who are keen to take this offer must take note that they are limited to a maximum purchase of 25 units per company. What they will get, of course, are new notebook/desktop PCs and tablets that come with Microsoft Windows 8/8.1 with Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus.

“By signing up for this program, SMEs will be able to purchase new devices from participating PC brands – Acer, Dell, HP, and Lenovo, with the special trade-in deal, which can go up to RM600 per device. This is how we want to encourage local businesses to quickly make the switch over from their legacy systems to what is current and still receiving ongoing updates from Microsoft. As is, we are already expecting a 10% take-up from SMEs that want to sign up for this program. After all, it’s irresistible!” says Azizi A. Hadi, Executive Vice President, SME, TM.

For more info on TM SME BizFest, please visit: www.tm.com.my/smebizfest2014