Going 64-Bit

Microsoft launches 64-bit Windows

Published on April 26, 2005 By Black Xero In WinCustomize News

According CNET News, Microsoft has finally unveiled 64-Bit WindowsOS which has been named WindowsXP x64.

There's no question about it: 64-bit computing is the future, because it promises better performance and room to grow for memory-hungry applications and operating systems. In fact, millions of people already use desktops and laptops with 64-bit processors that have been available from AMD since 2003 and Intel since February 2005. With the release of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition and Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition, Microsoft takes a big first step toward a 64-bit world.

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is not available in boxed editions via resellers; it will be sold only through OEM vendors and licensing agreements. The new OS is priced the same as the 32-bit Windows XP Professional, and for a limited time, current XP Professional customers running 64-bit systems can upgrade for free.

Comments

Double Zero

on Apr 26, 2005

Well now we'll see how AMD's 64 bit chip really holds up..
The 64bit world is now opening up..is everyone ready?..LoL

Zero.

sssnake

on Apr 26, 2005

Intel has entered the competition too... I'm not very happy with some of the ideas that Microsoft realised. No support for 16-bit, not full support for 32-bit, it's all pretty negligent.

Weaksid

on Apr 26, 2005

You know, I was going to post this last night, but decided not too. I couldn't figure out how I was going to announce it

On the topic:
Finally Microsoft gets on the band wagon. They've been slacking lately. The only thing is, I even have the trial version of Windows XP Pro x64, I just haven't installed it on my notebook that has the 64-bit processor to see how it was. Hmm, maybe I'll have to build a machine with a 64-bit processor to run the new versions coming out

Double Zero

on Apr 26, 2005

Finally Microsoft gets on the band wagon. They've been slacking lately.

I actually believe the "Slacking" was on purpose for the benefit of *Intel..giving Intel time to produce their 64bit processor and keeping AMD from gaining most of the market in that area..it is what I call "Dirty Rotten Business" ..::laughs:: but ah well..thats how the big boys play..I think it was completely unfair to AMD.

But then thats just the way it appears to me...

Hmm, maybe I'll have to build a machine with a 64-bit processor to run the new versions coming out

Go for it Sid! It would be fun and why not? I am considering doing the same thing, if I dont care for the machine I'll just sell it.

Zero.

Tarkus

on Apr 27, 2005

Is there any way to buy this for a homemade system?

Posted via WinCustomize Browser/Stardock Central

Black Xero

on Apr 27, 2005

Is there any way to buy this for a homemade system?

The new OS is priced the same as the 32-bit Windows XP Professional, and for a limited time, current XP Professional customers running 64-bit systems can upgrade for free.

HG_Eliminator

on Apr 27, 2005

apparently us XPhome users don't get a break like the PRO/buisnesses do...kinda cheap...

Tarkus

on Apr 27, 2005

The new OS is priced the same as the 32-bit Windows XP Professional, and for a limited time, current XP Professional customers running 64-bit systems can upgrade for free.

Did you go to their website? Apparently that's only for those who bought pre-built 64-bit systems that had 32-bit XP Pro pre-installed on them. https://microsoft.productorder.com/clientx64/default.aspx

That's why I asked if there's any joy for those of us with homemade systems.

Double Zero

on Apr 27, 2005

Did you go to their website? Apparently that's only for those who bought pre-built 64-bit systems that had 32-bit XP Pro pre-installed on them

Well thats just too bad! I was all set to go and get my free copy of the 64 bit OS and just put it aside until I decided to build a 64 bit system..I guess MS doesnt mis a trick!..LoL

Tarkus

on Apr 27, 2005

It looks like there will be OEM versions available for sale soon for about $150. Since I don't even have a 64-bit system yet, I'll probably just wait until Longhorn.

HG_Eliminator

on Apr 27, 2005

I was all set to go and get my free copy of the 64 bit OS and just put it aside until I decided to build a 64 bit system..

im not sure you could do that anyways ... to get the free upgrade voids the license you have with your current XP instalation... heres the MS page giving the full details of the "free
upgrade" http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/upgrade/default.mspx

In order to be eligible to receive Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition, your computer must have been ordered between March 31, 2003 and July 31, 2005 with Microsoft Windows® XP Pro (32 Bit) preinstalled..

this offer basically is for commercially built pcs .. not for user built .. even those with XPPRO are still not eligable...

Double Zero

on Apr 27, 2005

Well, I was being a bit sarcastic, the 64 bit version of windows XP is basically a different OS, sure, it is windows XP but it required programming changes in order to adapt to the 64bit enviroment..
apparently quite extensive changes..

Can we really expect MS to simply "Give" it away??

I personally am not at all interested in the 64bit version and will more than likely follow this sentiment...

Since I don't even have a 64-bit system yet, I'll probably just wait until Longhorn.

Also awaiting the release of Intel's *Dual Core* CPU, thats what im saving my pennies for!..LoL

Zero.

MPD

on Apr 28, 2005

As always, there's the official version and what's going on in the real world. Yes, officially there will be no boxed retail versions of X64. But there will be OEM discs for sale "with hardware" (like a cheap mouse or something), so if you really want to upgrade a home version of XP it is apparently possible, if you are willing to pay the price. At least one site is already taking preorders for "Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 w/CD and License (ETA 05/10)."
Link

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