An imaginative individual has presented us with a vision of an alternate reality where Microsoft continued to refine the design of the classic Windows XP.
Launched in 2001, Windows XP ran people’s computers around the world until mainstream support ceased on April 14, 2009. Some even continued to use it until 2019, when Microsoft finally pulled the plug for embedded versions. Nevertheless, the introduction of Windows Vista in 2007 and followed closely by Windows 7 in 2009, marked the fading relevance of Windows XP for a majority of users.
Yet, imagine a scenario where Microsoft chose to enhance the Windows XP interface instead of transitioning to the newer Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. What if we were navigating a Windows XP 2024 edition in our daily computing lives?
This speculative musing became a reality through a detailed nine-minute video re-envisioning XP, created by YouTube user AR 4789. Known for crafting conceptual operating system designs, a quick tour of their channel reveals several futuristic concepts, including speculations about the upcoming Windows 12.
The Windows XP 2024 concept video particularly stirs up the “what If?” sentiment, showcasing elements of the OS’ design that were both celebrated and criticized.
The YouTube video is rich with thoughtful touches, from a modernized taskbar to a Start Menu and dialogue windows that borrow paging features seen in more recent Windows operating system iterations. A standout moment occurs at 07:20 when dark mode is activated, transforming the iconic Bliss wallpaper into a mesmerizing night sky.
Several aspects of the Windows XP design highlighted in the video might make some cringe, reminiscent as they are of an earlier digital era. The aesthetics of the window control buttons and certain 3D effects might appear out-of-date to the new generation.
Subjectivity aside, these critiques are based on personal preference only. To some, Windows 11 may seem satisfactory, potentially due to a sense of familiarity. Nonetheless, the nostalgic concept video serves as a fascinating glimpse into an alternate development path Microsoft could have pursued had they not constantly sought to reinvent their platform.