Microsoft’s stock fell nearly 3% following the announcement of the postponement of the Windows Vista operating system launch to early 2007, as more time is needed to refine its security features.
This announcement was made by Microsoft’s CEO, Bill Gates, yesterday (March 21). The world’s largest software company will push the plan to unveil Windows Vista from the second half of this year to early next year, while committing to launch the “Enterprise” version of Vista in November 2007.
Vista is known as the first “massive” version of Windows since Microsoft released Windows XP five years ago. The frequent delays or rescheduling of product launches by Microsoft have left many users frustrated. Previously, Microsoft planned to announce Windows Longhorn (now known as Vista) in 2005, but it was later postponed to 2006 and now to 2007.
Windows Vista is also seen as a new “front” in a series of new and upcoming products from Microsoft, including the next-generation gaming system Xbox 360 and upgrades to the Office software suite.
The postponement of Windows Vista has driven Microsoft’s stock down to $26.98 per share, a decrease of 2.7% compared to trading on March 20.
