Will Netbook Customers Be Disappointed By Windows 7 Starter?

Microsoft, in order to encourage notebook purchases, has made a point of removing certain features crippling from Windows 7 to create the ‘Starter Edition’. This version which is only available on Netbooks and Nettops (MSFT has specific requirements and limitations which vary over time) is missing many features of Windows 7. Even if you purchase a DVD player, the OS does not include DVD playback software. Other features are probably less important including Windows Media Center, The “Aero” (processor hogging) interface, and Windows XP mode.

Originally, Starter Edition was only going to allow 3 concurrently running applications, in the guise of protecting users from systems slowing down (netbooks usually have lower processor and memory capabilities). That option was removed at the request of PC manufacturers.

Question is, will this impact the experience for netbook customers and lead to dissatisfaction? We here at Observer Publishing aren’t so sure. Netbook customers hopefully understand that these systems have inherent limitations. The missing features shouldn’t impact usability and might even help ensure that they have adequate processing power.