Confused About Windows 7 Starter Edition Controversy
People are still freaking out because Microsoft plans to offer a ‘starter’ version of Windows 7 that has less functionality than the premium editions. Of course, no one will be forced to use the starter version. Home Premium will likely be an option from most netbook vendors, and many makers will continue to offer Linux as an option.
Sure, Windows 7 Home Premium will cost more than the starter edition. That’s how things work in the grown-up world. But people are acting like Starter will be their only choice. That’s just silly. Even if you’re somehow dumb enough to accidentally buy into a starter edition netbook, an upgrade will be just a click and a credit card number away. And if you don’t want to pay for a Windows 7 upgrade, Linux will – of course – always remain a free download.
People seem to be expecting Microsoft to offer a cheap starter edition that matches the premium edition feature for feature. That would be pointless and stupid, and likely lead to higher prices across the board (as Microsoft increased the price of other SKUs to make up for lost revenue when everyone chooses the feature-packed starter edition).
Why on Earth would Microsoft offer a cheap, restriction-free ‘starter edition’ with the exact same functionality as a premium edition? That makes no sense.
