New York Celebrates XP
Under the watchful eye of security, events kicked off in New York beginning with Wednesday's Windows Experience Pavillon where Microsoft partners touted goods and services designed to work with the newly christened operating system. The exhibit area was divided into sections that showcased the different experiences Windows had to offer. Wednesday night's events culminated in what was intended to be "midnight madness," however Gateway and CompUSA stores across the city were host to lukewarm receptions.
The third floor of the Marriott Marquis Theater became a virtual bazaar of vendors showing off XP-ready products featuring digital music, photography, networking, security, and digital video capabilities. Microsoft estimates that Windows will offer the US economy a much needed $100 billion boost in combination with its partners. Noticeably absent from the festivities was industry giant AOL Time Warner.
Both Gateway and CompUSA watered down their celebrations and opened up at 9:30 PM as opposed to midnight. The overwhelming anticipation customers harbored for Windows 95 did not see a repeat performance. Instead, crowds were modest at best - never projecting outdoors.
Gateway CEO Ted Waitt and Bill Gates were on hand offering free autographs to customers who purchased boxed copies of Windows XP at Gateway's Columbus Circle store. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres were complementary for those who were lucky enough to receive word of the rescheduling.
Midnight madness ended shortly after 11 PM in Gateway country, and BetaNews observed customers at the CompUSA store -- located directly across the street -- browsing for bargains on items other than Windows XP. New York City Firefighters made an appearance at the Columbus Circle Gateway and received a hero's welcome complete with as many requests for autographs as the industry bigwigs themselves.
Gateway's mascot cow also graced the streets of New York, causing quite a stir by confused onlookers.
Despite the lackluster night, Thursday rang in an upbeat day that included an early morning CEO panel. The panel brought together leading OEMs and retailers on stage alongside Bill Gates preceding his keynote address. The day was topped off by Sting's concert to the thousands in attendance at Bryant Park.