Microsoft is keen to stir up enthusiasm for Windows Vista, but when it comes to the 64-bit edition of the recently released operating system, the software giant is sending decidedly mixed messages. Vista is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, with the latter targeted at owners of recent computers with 64-bit processors. However, customers who purchase the retail version of Vista Home Basic, Home Premium or Business don't have the option of buying the 64-bit version directly.
Instead, they have to purchase the 32-bit version and then order a replacement CD from Microsoft, for which they are required to pay a postage charge. The charge is described as "minimal" by Microsoft, but comes in at just under AU$15 for Australian users.
The online ordering scenario is not straightforward either. To ensure that people don't try order upgrades based on pirate copies, or install the 32-bit OS on one system and the 64-bit OS on another, users have to provide the software product key. Credit card payment is the only option offered. The issue doesn't apply to the top-of-the-line Windows Vista Ultimate release, which does include 32- and 64-bit releases in the same package. Enterprise customers on subscription arrangements can also download the 64-bit versions directly.
View: Full Article @ ZDNet Australia
Instead, they have to purchase the 32-bit version and then order a replacement CD from Microsoft, for which they are required to pay a postage charge. The charge is described as "minimal" by Microsoft, but comes in at just under AU$15 for Australian users.
The online ordering scenario is not straightforward either. To ensure that people don't try order upgrades based on pirate copies, or install the 32-bit OS on one system and the 64-bit OS on another, users have to provide the software product key. Credit card payment is the only option offered. The issue doesn't apply to the top-of-the-line Windows Vista Ultimate release, which does include 32- and 64-bit releases in the same package. Enterprise customers on subscription arrangements can also download the 64-bit versions directly.
View: Full Article @ ZDNet Australia
errr, then why does ultimate 32 & 64 come on the same dvd?
errr, then why does ultimate 32 & 64 come on the same dvd?
It does not. From what I've seen it is 2 DVD's in the package with one DVD containing the 32-bit version and another containing the 64-bit version
64-bit will be pushed on new systems (especially once they get up over 2GB). That's the way that makes most sense.
So, long story short... Get a friend with a x64 Vista disc to make you a copy. =) Which, AFAIK, wouldn't be illegal as long as you're giving it to a licensed person with Vista.
Side note... Running two systems with Vista x64 since 11/16, I haven't had a single(or multiple =) case of incompatibility due to my arch... Go figure! =)
when talking about x86 vs x64, pretty much every file is going to be different. winbeta removed things to make them fit (i think it was unnecessary foreign language recources, and possibly some drivers)
Manufacturer's could write a single driver for Vista 64 and that would be it. In 3 or 4 years from today Vista 64 will make perfect sense and Vista 32 will seem like a waste of time.
EDIT: I suppose Windows Vienna will be a 64 bit only release.
Last edited by hardgiant on 20 Feb 2007 - 18:18
@TRC: 100%ly aggreed. well said
Glassed Silver:mac
I'm just glad I was clever enough to get the Oem version where I got x64 right away, which not only saved some money over Upgrade still, but also saved the additional money and all the hoops you have to jump through to get the x64 edition.
Pretty stupid of MS to punish the buyers of legal retail/upgrade versions this way. This will only deter more buyers from Vista, and the sales are already much morse (60% less) than the XP sales.
this is ridiculous
Glassed Silver:mac
- EDIT -
And whys my comment in the wrong place, time codes/message order is all messed up.
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