Microsoft released Windows XP SP3, which is available now on public Windows Update servers and the Microsoft Download Center.
SP3 functions primarily as a collection of past fixes with a few security additions. SP3 is most certainly essential for anyone who hasn’t applied SP2, and for those who haven’t kept up with the Windows Update downloads.
If you’re a fan of the Address bar in the Task bar, here’s a little shock for you: it will not be present in Windows XP Service Pack 3. According to Microsoft, this change is in response to a regulatory request.
Also interesting to know is that OEMs and Retailers will not be able to obtain new copies of Windows XP after June 30th 2008, due to the end of Mainstream Support. System Builders will continue to be able to obtain XP through January 31st, 2009.
From the MICROSOFT SUPPORT LIFECYCLE BLOG:
[INDENT]”Windows XP was launched in 2001 and Microsoft committed to providing a minimum of 10 years of support (5 years of Mainstream Support and 5 years of Extended Support) at the time it was released. In accordance with the policy, when we announced the updated release date of Windows Vista, Microsoft also provided additional 2 years Mainstream Support for Windows XP. Last year, we also announced the addition of an Extended Support phase to the consumer editions of Windows XP. Supporting products for this length of time is not something that is typical in the software industry. This is a significant advantage for Microsoft customers, because it allows for future business planning and allows our customers to maximize their investment in Microsoft technologies by understanding how to achieve the most productive use of the product.”[/INDENT]
Currently, 80% of our Ultrashock Windows users still use XP (check out our 2008 OS poll). You’ve got until April 2014 when the Extended Support phase will end 
.
