Windows XP launch tipped for early take-off

Microsoft has reportedly told the world's major PC makers to begin shipping Windows XP as early as September - a full month ahead of the official launch date.

According to reports in the US, the computer manufacturers plan to install the new OS on their PCs and notebooks at the beginning of September, well before the product goes on general release on 25 October.

But customers may have to wait to a little longer to get their hands on it while XP is tested fully on these machines.

However, sources told CNET that XP could be in the shops as early as 17 September, although Microsoft has apparently told the PC players not to promote products running XP until 12 October.

An early release could scupper any legal moves to delay the launch - one possible outcome of the ongoing antitrust action being taken against the company.

The whole industry is hoping the launch of XP will kick-start a revival in the high-tech sector, which has seen practically every company in the sector turn in poor financial results in recent times.