"DevilsPGD" <spam_narf_spam@crazyhat.net> wrote in message
news:ol54s2ltt2andm80mhqvfj82k1gefkgj1f@4ax.com...[color=blue]
> In message <1F1DBA66-E0B7-42FA-9BFA-C6F8447B43A4@microsoft.com> Rob
> <Rob@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote:
>[color=green]
>>"MICHAEL" wrote:
>>[color=darkred]
>>> This is called a *major* goof on Microsoft's part.
>>>
>>> The ability to do this has a lot of implications.
>>>
>>> -Michael[/color]
>>
>>Yes, like who's going to buy the full version when you can get the upgrade
>>that does the same thing for a lot less albeit takes a little longer to
>>install.[/color]
>
> While true, perhaps it was done accidentally on purpose to reduce the
> number of people who decide having to reinstall and reactivate XP just
> to reinstall Vista is too much hassle and just stick with XP?[/color]

I guarantee this was not done on purpose.

This way, anyone can use an upgrade version. Even with *no*
qualifying OS installed or without a qualifying disk.
Anyone using a pirated copy of WinXP, no longer has to worry
about being "validated". Also, user could setup a blank partition and
install the upgrade there, without losing their WinXP.
An upgrade sku/key has basically been turned into a retail version.

No, Microsoft didn't do this "accidently on purpose".

Take care,

Michael