Apple Drops Support for Windows XP, Vista in OS X 10.6.6 Boot Camp

The latest version of Apple’s Boot Camp utility found in Mac OS X 10.6.6 indicates that the Mac maker has effectively dropped support for Microsoft’s Windows XP and Windows Vista operating systems.

Citing a “tip,” Macnn reports that Apple has made some subtle changes to Boot Camp, the utility that assists users in installing a different operating system on their Macintosh computers.

Screenshots of the installation wizard that Boot Camp launches when the user attempts to install Windows indicate that Microsoft’s older desktop OSes - XP and Vista - are no longer supported by the software.

The dialog boxes now say:

“Insert your Windows installation disc and click Start Installation. You’ll need an authentic installation disc for Windows 7 Home, PRemium, Professional, or Ultimate."

“After you have installed and set up Windows, insert your Windows drivers disc to install additional drivers and other software for Windows.”

Moreover, Boot Camp now also requires users to download "additional software designed specifically for each Mac," consisting of drivers for components like keyboards, trackpads and webcams, according to the same tip.

Users are being told to check with Windows support for this software, rather than the OS X installation disc, as the drivers may be outdated on the latter.

“Additional software designed specifically for each Mac is required to fully support Windows,” Apple states in the Boot Camp Assistant instructions.

“Download the latest version of the Windows support software to install Boot Camp drivers that allow your Apple keyboard, mouse, trackpad, and built-in iSight to work,” the installation wizard continues to reveal.

Lastly, Apple makes the following “important” note: “Don’t use Windows support software from a Mac OS X installation disc or another Mac.”

While not specifically stating the reason for this instruction, it is reasonable to assume that Apple is looking to avoid unnecessary hassle with potential complaints from users whose software was not updated with the latest drivers.