Sony nixes Windows 7's XP virtualization mode for current Vaio laptops
(Credit:
Sony)
A small but vocal group of tech enthusiasts is raising a fuss over Sony's plans to disable the hardware virtualization required to run Microsoft's Windows 7 XP virtualization technology.
Answering reader questions on the official Windows Partner Blog, Sony exec Xavier Lauwaert says security issues are to blame (the explanation comes in the comments section of the post):
Our engineers and QA people were very concerned that enabling VT would expose our systems to malicious code that could go very deep in the Operating System structure of the PC and completely disable the latter.
However, all is not lost, as Lauwaert says that Sony has listened to the complaints and will selectively allow XP virtualization mode to run on future systems -- although no specific details about models and timeframes are mentioned.
However, with the advent of XP Virtualization, there is impetus for us to relook at the situation and I can share with you that we will enable VT on select models.
While some have gone so far as to call for a class-action lawsuit on behalf of Vaio purchasers, this is an issue that's generally confined to the periphery of enthusiast PC users -- which is why the outrage has clearly taken Sony by surprise.
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Good day sir!
As with other MFG's out there they should let the customer decide.. They can disable the feature by default but, they should allow Power users to tweak they're machines as they see fit/require.
In order for Win7 XP mode to work your processor must support Virtualization.. heres a little dirty secret, Intel sells processors, exactly the same speeds and models WITH and WITH OUT V-Pro.. V-Pro is the virtualization support.
Obviously theres a price break for the non V-Pro chips.. Sony makes more margin by using those.. but they cant use those if they supported XP mode across the board can they?
Sony doesnt care about security they just dont want to have to buy V-Pro chips for all their machine lines.. they will support XP mode on the lines which have the V-pro on the chips and not on their cheaper machines .. its that simple.
There it is... Nice try Sony
Fortunately, people already have found ways to enable virtualization on their laptops. I for one have already enabled virtualization on my Sony Z. Just have to use google.
My XPS notebook from 2006 supports virtualization.
For those who seem to think you can enable VT with a download, it's not quite that easy. It requires that you actually install a hacked bios which can void your warranty, and brick your laptop if done incorrectly. Just telling folks to 'google' it and do it is irresponsible. If you understand the risk, that's fine, but ensure you do understand before taking the leap.
For most folks, I'd just suggest you avoid Sony in the future. There are better manufacturers out there. I have a household full of laptops and I went through 3 Sony Vaio's in short order. They are not worth the price. Hell, you could get an equivalent Apple for the same price and you can have both OS X and Windows using Boot Camp.
- by mmeachm August 18, 2009 4:36 AM PDT
- I spent $3,000 on a Vaio laptop that can't virtualize?!! I have come to understand that Vaio means "not upgradeable". This is a great pity. Their small size and great power make them an ideal candidate for IT professionals who travel. Part of my job is deploying and displaying the latest technology. Guess I'll have to leave the Sony home.
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