World’s largest software company Microsoft would no longer support the Windows 98 and Windows ME operating system products from now on.

This comes just as the company said that they are on track for a worldwide launch of their Windows Vista operating system in January next year.

The company would no longer release security updates, telephone advice or other technical support for Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, and Windows ME.

Microsoft said in a statement: “This is not a last minute announcement. This last wave of communications is a final reminder for those who have postponed or delayed migrating from Windows 98 or Windows ME to Windows XP to finally put their plans into action.”

The support for these operating systems was due to end a couple of months back but delays in the launch of Vista and huge customer base prompted the company to extend the support for these products.

Microsoft however said that they would continue to host support related information on their website for these abandoned operating system releases.