What do Windows Vista, Dell, HIV and AIDS have in common? Well, the four have a deeper connection than meets the eye. Microsoft has confirmed that it has partnered with U.S. computer manufacturer Dell and with (RED) in order to ship exclusive (PRODUCT)RED branded products. (RED) is an initiative put together by Bono and Bobby Shriver, Chairman of DATA, and designed to supply treatment for women and children in Africa affected by HIV/AIDS, by raising money to support The Global Fund.

"There's been some speculation online that Windows, Dell and (RED) are going to make an announcement later this week at Davos. Wouldn't it be incredible if, through the simple act of choosing a PC, and at no extra cost to you, you could put someone living with AIDS in Africa on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment for more than six months? Windows, Dell and (RED) are proud to introduce our (PRODUCT) RED products later this week," stated Nick White, Microsoft Product Manager.

As of now, neither Microsoft nor Dell nor (RED) have officially revealed what their collaboration will amount to. The Redmond company however did specify that additional details about the initiative would be made available at the end of this week at Davos. The new (PRODUCT)RED range of items will include no less than three machines from Dell, including the XPS One desktop, but also the XPS M1330 and the 1530 laptops. Microsoft will offer Windows Vista Ultimate editions preloaded on all the computers. Moreover, it seems that each Vista Ultimate copy will be customized to tailor the (RED) initiative.

"The Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT) RED bits are only available via purchase of a Dell PCs running Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT) RED. In other words, if you make the purchase and the associated contribution is made as a result, you get the benefits, which include the aforementioned bits," White added.