We are gathered here today to mourn the loss of a dear friend.  For years, Windows XP has helped netbooks be more than just slow paperweights.  It was the wind beneath the wings of millions of netbook owners around the world.

Alas, Microsoft has decided that Windows XP is no longer fit for this world and has put it to sleep.  Windows XP leaves behind two children, Vista and 7.  Vista is the older of the two meaning that 7 will be faced with taking over where XP started.

Expect netbooks to come with Windows 7 Starter from here on out meaning that you will no longer be able to change your background image and enjoy other limitations Microsoft has in store for you.

In Microsoft’s defense, Windows 7 has a lot of cool features and is faster in some senses when compared to XP.  On the downside your battery life is going to take a hit since 7 requires a larger install.

If I could find a copy of Windows 2000, I’d throw that on my netbook.  Just enough code to make things fly without getting bogged down.  Then again with the strides Ubuntu and Meego are making I just might have to put Windows XP to rest myself and join the rest of the free world.

[Via Windowsteamblog]

1. Microsoft Reveals XP Netbook Restrictions

2. Rumor: RJ45 Ports To Be Removed In Future Netbooks

3. Linux Fanboys Fear Windows 7

4. Netbooks To Die Slowly In 2010….Get Reborn As Thin Notebooks

5. Netbooks To Keep XP Alive