Why would a company like Microsoft give away $100? Well, that's because the tech giant is "desperate" to get rid of Windows XP.
The said operating system has been around for 12 years now, which means it's about time it's zapped from existence as it's already considered "a dinosaur in the fast-moving technology sector," according to Time.
Despite this, it's still used in about 30% of all desktop PCs wired to the Internet, analytics firm Net Market Share revealed. This may be due to the fact that the OS comes installed in refurbished computers bought by many districts in the U.S., and even in other countries in the world.
Not only that, 10% of the computers used in federal government offices runs on Windows XP and that 6% of those used in corporate settings are still using this decade-old OS. Then there are the ATMs, 95% of which are still running on XP. Thus Microsoft's desperation.
The company has announced that it will be ending support for the said OS on April 8 and will cease facilitating security updates next month, which will then make PCs and computers using XP vulnerable to malware and viruses. It is hoped that this step will convince more users to switch to the newer software versions. And yes, the $100 offer should seal the deal too.
If your computer is still running on Windows XP and are willing to upgrade to Windows 8-compatible computer, you're eligible to get a hundred bucks from Microsoft.
"Those who are eligible for the promotion can redeem the credit at Microsoft's online store or their retail shops -- and the fact that you still use the 13-year old Windows XP is subject to verification by Microsoft," CNN explained. "The offer is good for PCs ranging in price from $599 and $2,299 and will run until June 15."
Will this convince you to trade your old OS for a spankingly new one?
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