Tech Doctor, you are right about linux, it is better.

I was on about xp and vista.

The older technology will be faded out sooner rather than later.  Vista have workarounds to work in XP mode and boots up faster.

I also know about downgrading because I have forced my company to downgrade due to some compatibilty with British Telecom equipment, but for the average user, Vista is better than XP.

I agree Linux is much better for technical minded individuals like us, but for the average public, since Microsoft would most likely come with the new laptop and for ease of use of non-technical minded persons, Vista is still better!