Hmm, there's a concept. Lower prices to a reasonable level to get more sales? Why didn't I think of that? Just imagine if they did the same in the USA. Microsoft might actually make more money by not incurring scores of legal fees while fighting piracy. I dunno about you, but when I look at a new OS that costs $200 , I think twice before pulling out my wallet. But a brand new copy of Windows for $66? That's a sale in the bag if there ever was one! Honestly, if MIcrosoft's most premium version of Windows would cost no more than $200 to consumers (full version, not upgrade), then I guarantee you that copies of it will be flying off the shelf, both in boxes and on PCs.

What the H_ll! "The main problem is cost. Chinese users have long complained that Microsoft's software prices, . . ."

From what I hear American user are complaining about cost so they give the Chinese a 67% price discount. I currently have a dual core system w/ DX10 graphics capability but at $239 its more than one quarter the price of my WHOLE SYSTEM that works fine with XP MCE 2005. At last I looked the Chinese are MAKING LOTS OF MONEY OFF AMERICANS. So now Americans are get screwed by an American company. We paid for the may the 60 million full price copies and they get the discount . . .WHY!

I have been unfortunate or stupid enough to have used or purchased MS Dos, Windows 3.0, 3.1, ME (mostly curiosity), XP, and MCE . . . .WHERE IS MY FRIGGIN DISCOUNT!