Customers show more Windows H8 as popular demand encourages HP to push 8.1 to “optional” status

It’s no secret that Windows 8 got off to a rough start, with users confused by the new tiled, touch- and mobile- friendly interface; irritated by its difficulty to use with the traditional mouse-and-keyboard setup of old; and/or put off by its outwardly un-charming appearance. Unfortunately for Microsoft, its attempt to alleviate some of the concerns of current and potential future customers – by improving the experience and making concessions for those still clinging on to the traditional desktop environment – seems to also be burning up faster than the Hindenburg.

In advertising material found on the United States version of their official website, HP has apparently decided to give short shrift to the sinking popularity of Windows 8 and 8.1 and states that it has bought back Windows 7 on its computers “by popular demand”. The site is now heavily promoting computers with Windows 7 as an alternative to Windows 8, with most of the available computers now coming with 7 pre-installed – unless Windows 8 is deliberately ticked as a “customisable option”.

The advertisements even claim that choosing a Windows 7 computer can save you “up to $150” from your purchase.

Numerous rumours have suggested that with the retirement of Steve Ballmer as CEO, Microsoft are eager for the next generation of Windows to distance from the media firestorm surrounding Windows 8 as much as possible, with many suggesting that Microsoft’s plans to reveal the next update for Windows at its Build Conference in April will reveal concepts for a whole new Windows – Windows 9, perhaps – rather than another refresh of 8. HP’s decision to highlight Windows 7 adds a little more to the ever-growing weight that rests on Microsoft’s shoulders to reassure everyone that they have their interests in mind.