"We are talking about the engine, the OS, and people have very different considerations when choosing it like"

And they are free to continue to use the system they have if they chose. I am simply mentioning that Microsoft surely isn't responsible for making sure they keep obsolete product taking up space and inventory in the retail channel.

"your copy of Maya (if one were so lucky) and XP."

Then continue to use Maya on the systems it is on under NT or 2000 if you wish. Microsoft is not coming in and erasing your systems. If you want to legally load a new machine with Maya it will probably have shipped with XP anyway - and I am fairly certain Maya will upgrade soon :)

"Replacing your OS is equivalent to replacing your Ford's engine and possibly finding out later that the brakes, steering, gearbox etc. also have to be replaced in order to work with it. "

Windows XP has been available to the public for months now - and many, many small companies took advantage of the opportunity to test it and see if they should move. Those who found no problems will now be switching if they wish and those who don't want to switch can simply stay put for a while.

No one is taking that choice away.

"Abusing that monopolistic dominance on a global scale is what this is about. It is for this very reason that so many people are so anti-Microsoft."

I have to tell you, I am obviously simply missing the point. I cannot imagine why there is a problem with Microsoft saying "we have advanced the product, and we will be only selling the current product to new customers".

I don't see anyone complain that Curious Labs won't still sell Poser 1.0.

Of course the OS is different - and that is why I fully support the initiative to get everyone moved as soon as possible. As a professional in the software industry I have seen how many hours and dollars go into trying to support obsolete operating environments for users who simply want to cling onto them like grim death.

Best if everyone get on the bus. For those that want to stay behind, fine, stay ... but they have to realize it is not Microsoft or other software producers job to maintain and improve your 5 year old software from now to eternity.

Ah well.. thanks for not flaming me :)