> It's also only at ~21% install base You do realise that is around 250 million machines, which is the same size as the entire iOS installed base a year ago?

> It's also only at ~21% install base You do realise that is around 250 million machines, which is the same size as the entire iOS installed base a year ago? There is still 15 months of support left. Perhaps the most important thing about a browser is the other stuff it drags with it - for example you are likely to use the identity services (eg using Chrome makes having a Google account more conducive) plus other things (storage, photos, email etc). It is in Microsoft's interest to bring people into that. > Just entices people to upgrade to Windows 7/8, and actually be secure. You can't practically upgrade from XP. Well maybe you can, but the general public can't. It is a fresh install which means losing all your apps, settings, and personalization and worrying about what data you will lose (who has perfect backups?) And then you have to learn a new user interface. This still applies if you buy a new device. (Yes Windows Easy Transfer exists, but still has issues.) If you are going to experience such a shakeup you may as well consider all the alternatives. My dad (as a data point, I mean anecdote) upgraded from XP to an iPad. That is even more secure!