Microsoft has discontinued the retail sales for its older computer operating systems - Windows 7 and Windows 8. A report in CIO Today says that until the Redmond-based tech titan comes out with its latest Windows 10 in mid-2015, customers will only be able to purchase Windows 8.1. Nevertheless, they can also obtain Windows 7 through downgrade rights.

The report further said that original equipment manufacturers can, however, continue to sell PCs having pre-installed editions of Windows 8 and Windows 7 Professional. On the other hand, they will no longer be able to offer Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium and Ultimate, as Microsoft has stopped their sale from Oct. 31.

The report reads, "Microsoft has not yet scheduled a release date for Windows 10, although it's expected to come out some time after the company's next Build Developer Conference, which is set for April 29 through May 1 of next year." It goes on to add, "Computer-savvy users will be able to take 10 for a test drive earlier, though, through Microsoft's new Windows Insider Program.

On the other hand, InformationWeek believes that the decision taken by Microsoft may possibly be "frightening" for many Windows users.

In an article, InformationWeek has warned, "To PC shoppers who want a Start menu or aren't enamored with touchscreens, (the lack of Windows 7) could be a scary thought."

It may be noted that while moving from Windows 7 to Windows 8, the software giant has gotten rid of the Start icon - which has been very dependable since the ground-breaking OS Windows 95. Instead, Microsoft has switched over to a touchscreen surface that is more akin to that of tablets and mobile phones.

However, InformationWeek has reported that "new Windows 7 PCs won't disappear" immediately. While "OEMs such as HP and Dell won't be able to purchase Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, or Ultimate licenses now, they'll be allowed to sell their remaining stock of Windows 7 machines."

InformationWeek added that considering the fact that Microsoft has assured that it will announce the end to OEM sales of Windows 7 Professional no less than a year before it actually does it, "most manufacturers will also continue to offer business-oriented computers with Windows 7 Professional until at least late 2015."