Posted on Sunday, June 03 2007 @ 9:33 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Microsoft plans to make the requirements to get a "Windows Vista Premium" logotype harder in mid-2008. The biggest change is that system makers will be required to add DirectX 10 capable graphics to their systems:
Currently, a “Windows Vista Capable” personal computer should include at least a central processing unit running at 800MHz, 512MB of system memory as well as a DirectX 9-compliant graphics processor. At the same time, “Windows Vista Premium” PC should feature at least 1.0GHz microprocessor, 1GB of memory, DirectX 9.0-compliant graphics adapter that supports pixel shader 2.0 with 32-bit precision and equipped 128MB of memory, 40GB hard disk drive with 15GB free space, DVD-ROM drive, audio output and Internet access capability.
Typically more “favourable” logotype makes people to choose one system over another, therefore, if computer makers want to sell higher-priced systems, they have to ensure that they carry “Premium” logo.
Starting from June, 2008, Microsoft reportedly plans to require DirectX 10-compatible graphics adapter inside systems with “Windows Vista Premium” logo. The decision is likely to increase popularity of games designed solely for DirectX 10 and Windows Vista OS, as currently numerous gamers tend not to upgrade their computers, but rather migrate to game consoles, such as Microsoft Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii or Sony PlayStation 3. Some groups of gamers even start to use competing Apple Macintosh platforms, where games designed for Windows are available via emulation, whereas other groups even try Linux OSes. Meanwhile, the signal from Microsoft may catalyze game developers to pay more attention to DX10-compatible titles, which will ultimately make games more visually appealing.
Source:
X-bit Labs.
