Want Vista instead of Windows 7? You can have it

Microsoft has announced Windows 7 will come with a downgrade option.

Downgrade rights have long been a part of the Windows licence for certain versions, particularly for businesses. That said, the option gained notoriety with Windows Vista. With Vista, the downgrade right was not only marketed by computer makers but, once Microsoft stopped selling XP, some PC makers sold Vista machines that were "pre-downgraded" to Windows XP.

Microsoft is actually expanding that Vista downgrade rights programme slightly, the company confirmed on Monday. Under the new programme, PC makers will be able to ship pre-downgraded machines based on anticipated demand for those systems. Until now, computers makers could only ship XP-downgraded machines if a particular customer had specified that is what he or she wanted.

Also, as noted earlier on Monday by silicon.com sister site ZDNet.com, Microsoft plans a similar programme for Windows 7, allowing users to go back not only to Vista, should they choose, but also to Windows XP.

Microsoft hasn't detailed exactly how downgrade rights will work with Windows 7 but presumably the rights will be attached to the Ultimate and Professional versions of Windows 7.

Businesses with volume-licensing deals covering Windows have long had the right to use any earlier version of Windows with their PCs.

Original article: Windows 7 will allow downgrades too from CNET News.com