Microsoft has launched "Windows XP Starter Edition for India," the latest version of its local language operating system which was introduced last year. Microsoft says the new version has been released in response to extensive feedback from first-time users, and promises to offer multi-language support allowing them to seamlessly switch between English, Hindi and Tamil as computing interfaces.

The latest version introduces beginners to computing by providing a simple operating system for entry-level PCs. It incorporates features specifically designed for beginners such as customized support in local languages, bi-lingual user interface, pre-configured PC settings, etc.

Also part of its effort to bridge the digital divide within the country, Microsoft has launched Works 8 - an entry level productivity applications suite for first-time computer users. Works 8 features a word processor, spreadsheet, database, calendar and an email application. The product incorporates easy-to-use templates for everyday tasks including school reports, resumes and home budgets. Microsoft intends to work with HCL and other OEM partners, to ensure retail availability of these new solutions.

Beginning April HCL will ship entry-level desktops and notebooks based on Windows XP Starter Edition for India; these would be pre-loaded with Works 8 as also Quick Heal anti-virus, education content from Erudite, and broadband access from BSNL and MTNL.

Speaking at the occasion, Union Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Dayanidhi Maran, said, "An affordable PC in local languages is the key to ensuring IT access for a billion Indians. 'Windows XP Starter Edition for India' has been developed exclusively for India, to enable people to work on PCs in their local language. This is the first time that an English and local language product has been created for a specific country. Moreover this PC will be available at an attractive price. Microsoft's effort towards making its software affordable and available in local languages, is a great step towards increasing PC usage in India and taking IT to the common man."

Will Poole, senior vice president - windows client business, Microsoft Corp, said, "By delivering 'Windows XP Starter Edition for India' in collaboration with governments and industry partners, our aim is to enable access to technology, and expand opportunities that help citizens in emerging technology markets realize the social and economic benefits of the global IT industry. India is the first country to introduce the multi-lingual version of Windows XP Starter Edition, and we hope that it will help more Indian citizens realize their full potential through technology."

Ravi Venkatesan, chairman, Microsoft India, said, "Driven by our India mission of building a digitally inclusive society, we continually seek to devise innovative ways for extending the reach of IT to the grass root level. This implies a clear focus on ensuring easy availability of affordable, relevant and local language based technology solutions to spur PC usage, especially for the first time PC users."

Ajai Chowdhry, chairman and chief executive officer, HCL Infosystems, said, "Broad availability of low cost options is critical to the growth of the PC market in India. Starting April, HCL Windows XP Starter Edition PCs & notebooks will be available off the shelves across India." Microsoft intends to make its new solutions available in 75 cities across the country, at prices as low as Rs 399 per month.