Earlier today rumors began swirling that Microsoft was going to extend the life of Windows XP once again. While XP won't be going back on retail shelves, Microsoft is allowing computer manufacturers to include XP media with PCs that have Vista pre-installed, so customers can continue to take advantage of their "downgrade rights."

Until now, vendors were supposed to stop providing this media as of January 31, 2009. Microsoft is now extending that period until July 31, 2009, an extra six months.

Late this afternoon I confirmed the rumor with a Microsoft spokesperson, who said it was indeed true. I quote: "Downgrade rights do not expire. As more customers make the move to Windows Vista, we want to make sure that they are making that transition with confidence and that it is as smooth as possible. Providing downgrade media for a few more months is part of that commitment, as is the Windows Vista Small Business Assurance program, which provides 1-on-1, customized support for our small business customers." When I asked if that meant another six months of media, the rep confirmed the timing.

While not officially sanctioned by Microsoft, presumably this means vendors will also have another six months where they can do the downgrade for you if you buy a new machine. The rules are a little hazy on the subject, but the majority of major computer vendors continue to offer at least some computers with XP preinstalled at the factory, exercising the same downgrade rights that let a consumer uninstall Vista and install XP in its place.

OEMs have not immediately said whether they'll extend such programs, but HP had previously stated it would continue downgrading through July 2009, even before the extension was announced. Now I have to wonder if we'll get another extension (or more simple ignoring of Microsoft's rules) to get us to 2010, when Windows 7 is supposed to be released....