Microsoft is preparing to develop a tailored Windows XP desktop for cheap portable computers via its Microsoft Magellan Learning Suite, in collaboration with the Portuguese government. According to the Redmond company, Magellan computers will come preloaded not only with the XP operating system but also with the Office 2007 System. Microsoft indicated that it had worked with the Portuguese government in order to bridge the local “e-Escolinhas” program with its Microsoft Magellan Learning Suite. The end purpose is, of course, to increase the pace of technology adoption in educational institutions.

“Providing students with access to technology and educational opportunities that will enable them to thrive in the knowledge economy is critical to the future success of every community. We are pleased and honored to join the Portuguese government and others on the Magellan Initiative as we work together to make technology more relevant, accessible and affordable for students in Portugal and around the world,” revealed Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer.

During his visit in Portugal, Steve Ballmer met with Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates in order to launch the Microsoft Magellan Learning Suite, which represents a Redmond company investment through the Microsoft Unlimited Potential program. In this regard, Microsoft's contribution is not limited to building a custom XP-Office 2007 desktop for the Magellan computers. The software company committed financial efforts to fuel training, but also Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum and the iSafe Internet Security Curriculum resources, all brought together via Microsoft Live@Edu.

“With the Magellan computer and the massive introduction of ICTs in the Portuguese education system, for the first time a whole generation will grow up to have strong English and ICT skills,” Socrates added. “This new generation will be better prepared and able to contribute more to the modernization and development of Portugal. Furthermore, with the Magellan initiative, a PC will be introduced in many homes for the first time, thus also strongly contributing to overcoming info-exclusion in general.”