Microsoft Redefines "Vista Capable" as Minimum Experience
Posted by Emil Protalinski on 09 April 2007 - 17:33 · 45 comments & 17428 views
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(4 replies)
#1 Posted by rec_kris on 09 Apr 2007 - 17:36
- Rad.
I think if you're enough of a nub to think that your TNT Rage card with 128 megs of ram can support all the new effects, you should just stick with windows 95/98. -
#1.1 Posted by TRC on 09 Apr 2007 - 18:11
- Did you really just say rad? Oh well, I guess that is keen and all, but what in the world is a nub?
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#1.2 Posted by antareus on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:42
- Quote - (TRC said @ #1.1)Did you really just say rad? Oh well, I guess that is keen and all, but what in the world is a nub?
A nub is a little bump on something. I think the original poster needs to use a dictionary more carefully next time. -
#1.3 Posted by K3vlar on 10 Apr 2007 - 01:44
- Here you go: http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=nub
Using "Rad" now though, that's inexcusable.
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(4 replies)
#2 Posted by Nestea_M@n on 09 Apr 2007 - 17:36
- Quite a huge change by the looks of it. Its unfair that Microsoft can change the rules in the middle of the game. I say, let the lawsuit begin!
Neztea -
#2.1 Posted by SirEvan on 09 Apr 2007 - 18:42
- you're an idiot. It still says the same thing, just worded differently so that idiots can understand it better, and even then, I wouldn't doubt it if some other noob consumer screws it up. I've been saying for a long time now that computer manufacturers should come up with a basic knowledge test, and make consumers take it before they are allowed to purchase a new computer. There are too many idiots out there that contribute to spam, viruses, and general ignorance regarding the operation of computers. IF you aren't smart enough to know not to click on an email regarding a trip to brazil you didn't take, from someone you don't know, or that you don't know how to perform basic operations on a computer, then you shouldn't be allowed to own one.
I say make the computer industry like the DMV....give users a test before they're allowed to use the damn computers, and you'll cut back on alot of morons on the net. My .02 euro -
#2.2 Posted by TRC on 09 Apr 2007 - 18:56
- You could have said all of that and still made your point without the childish name calling.
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#2.3 Posted by embj on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:18
- Quote - (SirEvan said @ #2.1)I've been saying for a long time now that computer manufacturers should come up with a basic knowledge test, and make consumers take it before they are allowed to purchase a new computer. There are too many idiots out there that contribute to spam, viruses, and general ignorance regarding the operation of computers. IF you aren't smart enough to know not to click on an email regarding a trip to brazil you didn't take, from someone you don't know, or that you don't know how to perform basic operations on a computer, then you shouldn't be allowed to own one.
I say make the computer industry like the DMV....give users a test before they're allowed to use the damn computers, and you'll cut back on alot of morons on the net. My .02 euro
Ha...that's exactly what I've been telling people. There are just too many computer illiterate people out there. They certainly do need to make it so you have to have a license to use a computer. It would definitely cut down on a lot of the identity thefts and virus infections that are taking place today. -
#2.4 Posted by jubber2002 on 09 Apr 2007 - 23:50
- Quote - (embj said @ #2.3)Quote - (SirEvan said @ #2.1)I've been saying for a long time now that computer manufacturers should come up with a basic knowledge test, and make consumers take it before they are allowed to purchase a new computer. There are too many idiots out there that contribute to spam, viruses, and general ignorance regarding the operation of computers. IF you aren't smart enough to know not to click on an email regarding a trip to brazil you didn't take, from someone you don't know, or that you don't know how to perform basic operations on a computer, then you shouldn't be allowed to own one.
I say make the computer industry like the DMV....give users a test before they're allowed to use the damn computers, and you'll cut back on alot of morons on the net. My .02 euro
Ha...that's exactly what I've been telling people. There are just too many computer illiterate people out there. They certainly do need to make it so you have to have a license to use a computer. It would definitely cut down on a lot of the identity thefts and virus infections that are taking place today.
*Ahem* Genuine Advantage
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(5 replies)
#3 Posted by ahhell on 09 Apr 2007 - 17:37
- What a stupid lawsuit.
"can run the core experiences of Windows Vista."
I guess some people have trouble understanding what "core" means -
#3.1 Posted by TRC on 09 Apr 2007 - 18:15
- Well to be honest "core" is a stupid way to market it. Do they really think the average consumer is going to understand what that means in terms of an OS when many of them don't know what right clicking on their mouse means?
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#3.2 Posted by Yogurth on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:21
- Nothing stupid about it and Microsoft is aware that this is serious. That is exactly why they changed Branding. If they actually showed commercials with Vista running basic interface there would be no reason for a lawsuit, but the bombardment with "WoW" and Aero turned into "Ouch" and so ugly for many Vista customers who had no idea of that Vista has "backup" interface.
Last edited by Yogurth on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:28 -
#3.3 Posted by excalpius on 10 Apr 2007 - 03:01
- It was a word scam meant to confuse users into buying something with the word Vista in the name in order to keep OEM revenues from completely tanking during the holiday season. It worked alright. But see in business there are ramifications for bait and switch, fraudulent misrepresentation, etc. ... unlike politics and this administation apparently.
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#3.4 Posted by kaiwai on 10 Apr 2007 - 11:21
- Quote - (TRC said @ #3.1)Well to be honest "core" is a stupid way to market it. Do they really think the average consumer is going to understand what that means in terms of an OS when many of them don't know what right clicking on their mouse means?
Its more than just 'clueless users' - when I think core; what does that actually cover? is it the bare basics "can get load up, but don't expect much"? when you see Vista capable, you assume that you can run Vista, and all the associated technologies included with Windows Vista, at a reasonable level of speed and stability.
What defines the "core" of the operating system? if I was upgrading from Windows XP to Windows Vista, I would assume the "core" would also encompass the new features like Aero, or otherwise, it would make the whole damn upgrade a complete waste of time!
Both OEM's AND Microsoft have to blame for this; OEM's passing off **** and claiming it can run 'Windows Vista", and Microsoft setting the bar far too low for machines that are capable of running Windows Vista - If it requires 1gig of memory, then damn well demand that the machine must have 1 gig of memory! I mean jesus christ, its 2007, if a machine is being sold with less than a gig of memory, given how cheap memory is, btw, then it should be a criminal offence! -
#3.5 Posted by em_te on 11 Apr 2007 - 06:04
- I think it means you can "boot the operating system without running any applications"!
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#4 Posted by daveoc64 on 09 Apr 2007 - 17:42
- As far as I can tell (at least on the Dell website), they haven't changed anything.
It has always said "Systems which meet only minimum requirements for the “Windows Vista Capable” designation will not provide the full benefits of “Premium Ready,” including the Aero interface. Some Dell systems may not meet the requirements for “Premium Ready,” no matter the configuration"
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#5 Posted by SacrificialSoldier on 09 Apr 2007 - 17:58
- It's about time!
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(2 replies)
#6 Posted by PaulK_CMF on 09 Apr 2007 - 18:02
- So if a computer is capable of running vista then it shouldn't be classed as Vista compatible unless it runs every last whistle and bell on offer? Yet another un-needed lawsuit bought up for no reason.
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#6.1 Posted by Darkinspiration on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:02
- Then ask yourself this: My computer is vista capable( it says so on the sticker) vista ultimate is a version of vista now why is my computer (amd semptron 3000+ 939 512 meg ram ddr 333 with via graphic) not able to vista aldo it's clearly marked as vista capable...
Presented like that it's clearly false advertising. The product sold does not do what is indicated. -
#6.2 Posted by NightmarE D on 09 Apr 2007 - 20:02
- Quote - (Darkinspiration said @ #6.1)Then ask yourself this: My computer is vista capable( it says so on the sticker) vista ultimate is a version of vista now why is my computer (amd semptron 3000+ 939 512 meg ram ddr 333 with via graphic) not able to vista aldo it's clearly marked as vista capable...
Presented like that it's clearly false advertising. The product sold does not do what is indicated.
There was two of them:
Vista Capable which meant the minimum experience
Vista Premium which meant you'd get the full Vista experience
My system:
AMD Athlon XP 2000+ at 1.66GHZ
512mb's of ram
30gig HDD
128mb GeForce card was original video card in it. Now it's an 256mb GeForce 6200
Mine would be considered Vista Capable, but it actually runs Ultimate perfectly fine and all I had to do was buy a new video card for $79.99.
This lawsuit is not needed and will do no good. Someone who didn't know what they were doing and didn't even bother asking for help, bought a computer and threw a hissy fit because they didn't know it wouldn't give them the full Vista experience. They should have looked into themselves more before buying it.
It's someone who is wanting money. Plain and simple. People were saying this was going to happen when Vista came out and here we go. Microsoft has new money coming in and people are trying to get it from them.
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(2 replies)
#7 Posted by LTD on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:29
- Never mind the OS itself, MS can't even get simple naming conventions right.
If it aint idiot-proof, it shouldn't have been produced in the first place. That goes for operating systems, nomenclature, whatever.
Let's have ONE version, with ALL the features, reasonably priced. None of this "home", "business", "Ultimate" garbage. One version, with perhaps a server variant. Let everyone enjoy the benefits of the Longhorn-that-never-was. Put the minimum system specs on the box, maybe with a "recommended" specs notation, and that's it. Done.
Christ, everywhere you look regarding MS these days, all you see is bloat, confusion, and mismanagement. Five friggin years, folks. Billions of dollars and five friggin years. -
#7.1 Posted by MrCobra on 10 Apr 2007 - 01:25
- +1
5+ years of developement and all they have to show for it is Vista.
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#8 Posted by NightmarE D on 09 Apr 2007 - 19:54
- I always thought that Vista Capable meant the minimum experience. I thought Microsoft was pretty clear on the differences between "Vista Capable" and "Vista Premium". If anyone honestly doesn't get the differences then they shouldn't use computers. Sounds like someone just wants some money from Microsoft IMHO.
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#9 Posted by MDboyz on 09 Apr 2007 - 20:02
- I'll say drop the lawsuit, and ban her from using the computer. Stupid people like her shouldn't use the computer anyway. It's like to buy a car as standard and expect to have all options and the full loaded one. This is what this country goes wrong. Stupid people are rewarded with $$$.....
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#10 Posted by WebOrbiter on 09 Apr 2007 - 20:12
- I've got a plan that will solve all of Microsoft's problems. Re-brand Vista Basic as "XP Plus", and be done with it.
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#11 Posted by Max™ on 09 Apr 2007 - 21:17
- I have rewritten this for Microsoft.
If your PC looks old, it probably is. Old PC's don't run Vista. They might do, but not fully. If you think your PC can run Vista, call Microsoft just in case. If you decide to file a lawsuit against us, make sure your PC is post-2001 before even bothering.
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(1 reply)
#12 Posted by wyatt erp on 09 Apr 2007 - 22:08
- people are buying $400.00 dollar computers and expecting them to come with all the latest greatest hardware and run everything. If you can't afford or don't think you need a decent amount of RAM and a good video card, save your money. Read a book or something.
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#13 Posted by nX07 on 09 Apr 2007 - 22:16
- Basically they made the description as to what Vista Capable is more discriptive as to what it can do and cannot do -- they "dumbed" it down for ignorant people.
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(1 reply)
#14 Posted by plastikaa on 09 Apr 2007 - 22:29
- The people who got caught up with this are those that didnt read what the difference between premium ready and capable was. Rewording it will make no difference as they still wont read it.
The only way to stop the confusion is to make the Premium ready sticker gold, flashy, and 10 times bigger and the vista capable one white and black and boring and smaller. This way, those not sure what to buy will think... hmm that sticker is better I'll go for that one. -
#14.1 Posted by DemonicHawk on 10 Apr 2007 - 00:47
- haha! i think that might actually work!
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(5 replies)
#15 Posted by abraracourci on 09 Apr 2007 - 22:30
- Well, I don't consider myself ignorant, but when I bought this laptop of mine back in August, it said "Vista Capable", and it sure seemed to me that this meant it would run Vista when it eventually came out, not that it would run only part of Vista or that it would run Vista in a limited way. It was quite a fast, powerful laptop at the time, too - as far as laptops go. Salespeople at all the computer stores I enquired about this at the time assured me a "Vista Capable" computer would run Vista, not Vista without its main feature. At that time, Vista was late, and both MS and computer makers were eager not to be stuck with current inventories until Vista finally was released months later. Meantime, many people who needed a new computer might not have been able to wait indefinitely. In my case, it wasn't just an upgrade, but rather a replacement for a dead computer.
None of this may be a real problem for a desktop computer, where you can easily upgrade whatever you need to upgrade, but the only thing you can upgrade in most laptops is RAM. Other than that, you're stuck with whatever you have. So, I'm all for the class action suit, and I wish it would include some computer makers and computer resellers too. As far as I'm concerned, the whole industry is guilty of deceptive practices. -
#15.1 Posted by rchris on 09 Apr 2007 - 23:06
- Quote - (abraracourci said @ #15)So, I'm all for the class action suit,
Oh sure, let's have another class action lawsuit so the lawyers can extort millions of dollars and the consumers can get a $5 coupon. Really worthwhile.
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#15.3 Posted by excalpius on 10 Apr 2007 - 03:05
- Yeah, you won't see anything, and the lawyers will get rich, but a successful class action suit WILL cause future companies to think twice about doing this sort of this again.
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#15.4 Posted by bbfc_uk on 10 Apr 2007 - 09:33
- Quote - (abraracourci said @ #15)Salespeople at all the computer stores I enquired about this at the time assured me a "Vista Capable" computer would run Vista, not Vista without its main feature.
Well then its the sales assistants faults for telling you that, not Microsoft. People in the stores will tell you anything to get you to buy a product. There is a well known electrical chain the UK who just say anything, and i recon the 'average joe' who walks in off the street knows more about the product than the people who work in the stores do. -
#15.5 Posted by +mrbester on 10 Apr 2007 - 12:11
- Quote - (bbfc_uk said @ #15.4)Quote - (abraracourci said @ #15)Salespeople at all the computer stores I enquired about this at the time assured me a "Vista Capable" computer would run Vista, not Vista without its main feature.
Well then its the sales assistants faults for telling you that, not Microsoft. People in the stores will tell you anything to get you to buy a product. There is a well known electrical chain the UK who just say anything, and i recon the 'average joe' who walks in off the street knows more about the product than the people who work in the stores do.
Only that they've seen some flashy ad (for Ultimate BTW with all the bells and whistles running at once on some high-spec rig), read some op-ed item in their daily rag of choice and then see some ad from <insert cheapo high street PC reseller here> flogging some stuff for about £400. The natural assumption is to believe the hype (especially when there's the usual "blind the buyer with technobabble" "conversation": "What does dual-core mean?" "It means you can surf the web and copy your files onto DVD at the same time!" [this is actual, not made up, folks])
So: you have a potential customer with inaccurate information because of Microsoft's ad not telling them otherwise in any way, shape or form who then believes that a "get it while it's hot!" ad will let them recreate the ad. There should have been a "you might need to upgrade your existing machine to run this nicely, contact your local shop" rider. That would have sorted the whole thing in one go; if your machine runs slow but you didn't check if it would (as suggested), that's your fault.
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#16 Posted by Sp3ctranova on 10 Apr 2007 - 07:39
- Let this be a lesson, kids. If you don't like something or think something is wrong or unfair, just start bitching about it. Sooner or later you'll hit a nerve and people will start listening
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#17 Posted by polo69 on 10 Apr 2007 - 12:44
- I think they should be labeled correctly. I agree with one version of Windows, that makes sense to me..... I dont think alot of Vista anyway, the bloated code and hardware requirements (to enjoy it) for this new OS blew me away.
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#18 Posted by mrmckeb on 10 Apr 2007 - 14:33
- In Australia, it's the retailer that has to inform the customer of all the facts - in our retail store EVERY STAFF MEMBER GOT SUFFICIENT TRAINING and no customers have gone away thinking that a AU$800 notebook will have Aero and Media Center. That's how it should be everywhere.
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#19 Posted by amj2007 on 10 Apr 2007 - 15:27
- The intension of MS was right but the outcome not..
They should have known by telling the public that par example if you want a racecar you'll need a racecar driver...
In other words you want the best, you'll need the best hardware for that version...
Microsoft should (and forgot) to state by each version, same pc each time different hardware, what you 'll need to run that PC, which logic is not flawd.
It is just when you buy an icecream, you want 1 ball of icecream or 5....
Of course you'll pay the most for the most lot of icecream.
If you don't know much about that subject, inform yourselves or ask a friend.
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(1 reply)
#20 [Guest] Posted by Guest on 11 Apr 2007 - 12:38
- a lot of you are jumping down this person's throat for no good reason. Get off your high horses. I would like to think I am computer literate, but even I was peeved when i got a new laptop which was branded "Vista Capable" and knew all the hardware in and out and was unable to run Aero because my stupid score was off by 0.2! its rediculous! Why should the average person have to know about shaders? the simple answer? they shouldnt! and that my friends is why OSX is getting more and more people everyday. Mind you, its never going to be as big number wise as windows, but its starting to get noticed.
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#20.1 Posted by roadwarrior on 11 Apr 2007 - 14:54
- Game makers are getting just as bad. I've seen too many games that claim to be compatible with any DirectX 9 card, but won't work on the GMA 950 because it has T&L in software instead of hardware.
“Through the Windows Vista Capable program, Windows XP-based PCs that are powerful enough to run Windows Vista are now available from leading PC manufacturers worldwide, including Acer Inc., Dell Inc., Fujitsu Limited, Gateway Inc., HP, Lenovo, NEC Corp., Sony Corp., Toshiba and more. The Windows Vista Capable logo is designed to assure customers that the PCs they buy today will be ready for an upgrade to Windows Vista and can run the core experiences of Windows Vista.”
to
“A new PC running Windows XP that carries the Windows Vista Capable PC logo can run Windows Vista. All editions of Windows Vista will deliver core experiences such as innovations in organizing and finding information, security, and reliability. All Windows Vista Capable PCs will run these core experiences at a minimum. Some features available in the premium editions of Windows Vista — like the new Windows Aero user experience — may require advanced or additional hardware.”