As Microsoft’s October 20th Black-screen-of-death deadline passes, I’m reminded of an old post I wrote about 2 years ago when I first started this whole blog. I’m gonna repost it here, as it seems somewhat relevant to the situation. Buying real software in China is still way expensive for the average Chinese user.

ERROR: Windows has Detected that you’re a Fucking Peasant

My laptop crashed about ten days ago. Being the conscientious and responsible person that I am, of course I had all my important stuff backed up. Still a pain in the ass though, because it seemed the only way to get my computer up and running again was a new Windows installation.

So off I went to the nearest dianzi cheng (Electronic City) to pick me up a copy of Windows XP. I was determined this time that I would buy a “real” copy, as I expected if I were to purchase a fake it’d only lead to more computer headaches in the not-so distant future.

So I arrive at Electronic City and start chatting the sales lady:

Me: Do you guys have an English version of Windows XP?
Lady: Yes, please wait a moment. Please, sit sit sit.
(lady goes behind a mountain of cardboard boxes, comes back)
Lady: Here you are. 15 yuan.
Me: I was just wondering, how much for a “real” version of windows? I should really buy that one, I think.
Lady: Well, we don’t have it here, but it would surely be more than a thousand RMB.
Me: Holy Windows Batman!
Lady: Tingbudong…

Anyway, I spoke to another friend of mine yesterday who tells me that he believes a real copy of windows may cost more than two thousand RMB. I have no idea. To me, Real Windows packages are kinda like Mr. Snuffleuppagus — I’ll buy one when I can afford one. But until then, fuck off Snuffy… (October 2008 Update: Looking back, I think I must have been drinking when I wrote this)

If a Windows package costs about 2000 RMB, here are some things to consider:

  • What’s the average monthly salary in China? Anyone willing to pay a month’s salary on a copy of Windows, say “I.”
  • How much is a desktop computer in China? You can buy some for three or four thousand. Would you spend $1000 on a computer in America, only to have to pay $500 to buy the operating system on top of that?
  • How much does a hooker cost? I’m willing to bet that you could squeeze 3 or 4 into your bed for same cost.
  • 2000 yang rou chuanr (or meat-on-a-stick) doesn’t sound too lousy either. I bet those Xinjiang dudes would really love me then!

Anyway, I’m not saying that all of this software piracy is ok. But man, Windows eXtra Pricy doesn’t seem that accessible to the general population as the price stands now.

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