Upgrading to IE8 or IE9

[kphoger]

DOS rocks.

[vdeane]

Well, they might need the security updates, but it depends on the kiosk.  As was mentioned, Windows 3.1 is still out there, so I wouldn't use those as a motivating factor for extending XP's support.

[Stratuscaster]

But for a fielded embedded system, what's the motivation to upgrade? If it works with XP, upgrading to 7 adds cost and risk while providing no functional benefits. There is a reason some kiosk terminals like ATMs out there still run Windows 3.1 or even MS-DOS. They already have a mature product and don't need any of the new functionality found in a more modern OS.

The primary motivation - provided the hardware meets the spec for W7E - is to standardize the image used on the hardware across the board. Streamlines the process when a change is made, and simplifies support when you only have to support one OS.

Security is the other motivator.

[JREwing78]

If the computer in question didn't have internet access, and there were no software updates or other items that required the upgrade, there's no reason to do so. But the amount of devices that fit that description is declining rapidly.

[Scott5114]

These days Windows 7 is probably as common as XP in businesses, and new XP roll-outs are rare.

We just had one of our vendors replace their entire complement of slot machines with newer model cabinets. Guess what OS they're running!

For embedded, kiosk, and other single-use systems like slot machines, there are usually zero compelling reasons to upgrade operating systems, particularly if the device isn't networked.

Perhaps, but I thought it sort of bizarre that they were using XP on what is effectively a new install (since the old 2006-era machines were being physically removed and replaced with ones manufactured in April). This particular type of machine is a Class II machine, which to make a long story short means that the game results are determined from a server, so there is networking involved. (Even traditional slot machines are networked these days with the advent of cashout vouchers. A server stores and tracks all vouchers in case there is an issue with one not crediting properly. When the network goes down it's sort of hilarious to watch all the machines shit the bed, in an abstract 'this would be funny if I wasn't working here' sort of way.)

Slot machine manufacturers do continue to use newer technology, if not exactly cutting edge, since today's games use all sorts of immersive technology like touchscreen input, high-quality graphics and sound (many slot machines have Bose speakers these days, and some even have surround sound in the chair). For most manufacturers this means newer Linux releases but a few still maintain a custom OS...and then there's two Class II vendors that are still on XP Embedded.

[on_wisconsin]

Also you could get "taxed" for using IE7 now:
http://bit.ly/Nk35EC

[agentsteel53]

Also you could get "taxed" for using IE7 now:
http://bit.ly/Nk35EC

a bit of stealth advertising?  I had never heard of Kogan before.  now I have.

[Dr Frankenstein]

Ow. That's harsh from them.

[vtk]

I don't even know what version of IE is on my home (XP) computer, though it's probably 7 or 8.  I use Firefox primarily, and Chrome on occasion.  In my web development hobbyist activities, I try to keep things as simple as possible so the browser would have to have some insane quirks to mess it up.  I don't use JavaScript if I don't have to.

[Roadsguy]

Just use Chrome. If anything doesn't work in Chrome, then dust off your IE desktop shortcut.

That's what I do.

[D-Dey65]

Well, it looks like I'm going to have to get a new computer soon no matter what... maybe even before Christmas. I hope it has enough space for all these alternate browsers.