TechEd 2013: Microsoft prescribes high-touch approach to Windows XP upgrades

Microsoft is calling on companies that are still heavily reliant on Windows XP to put touch-based devices at the centre of their desktop refresh strategies.

With the End of Life date for Windows XP fast approaching, the software giant wants people still running the ancient operating system to make upgrading it a matter of priority.

Speaking at the Microsoft TechEd Conference in New Orleans this week, Erwin Visser, general manager of Windows' Commercial business, said XP users should keep an open mind about the role Windows 8 could play in their business.

"When [XP] businesses are deploying Windows 7, we think it is a business case and opportunity to start integrating Windows 8 in that deployment project side-by-side with Windows 7," he said.

For instance, he said Windows 8 should be considered for use by companies that need an operating system well suited to mobility scenarios.

Visser also advised companies that are planning a desktop transformation to ensure tablets and other touch-based devices have a central role in their deployment strategies.

"When customers are refreshing their PCs today, [we] think [they should think] about introducing tablets and touch immediately," he explained.

"Our advice to customers is, to ensure your investments are future-proof, start buying touch devices, to make sure you can start implementing those modern experiences in the future."

With the Windows 8.1 preview set to drop later this month, Visser said end users should evaluate how its new features and functionality could benefit them.

The company treated TechEd attendees to a walkthrough of Windows 8.1's new enterprise-friendly capabilities during the first day of the conference. They include a host of new connectivity, security and usability enhancements.

"We advise customers to start evaluating Windows 8.1 and developing line of business apps in their organisation for Windows 8, as well as plans to start deploying Windows 8 on all form factors in future," he added.