Update: Microsoft has changed the wording of its Vista Capable program from "The Windows Vista Capable logo is designed to assure customers that the PCs they buy today will be ready for an upgrade to Windows Vista and can run the core experiences of Windows Vista" to "All Windows Vista Capable PCs will run these core experiences at a minimum".
A new class action lawsuit was filed against Microsoft, claiming that Microsoft engaged in deceptive practices by promoting computers as "Windows Vista Capable" even if they couldn't run the new operating system's "signature" features.
The proposed class action was filed on behalf of personal-computer buyer Dianne Kelley of Camano Island. Dianne claims that Microsoft and computer makers avoided a lull in PC sales by assuring consumers that the machines they were buying last year could run the delayed operating system upon its January release.
Microsoft responded by saying that computers with "Windows Vista Capable" stickers are capable of running Windows Vista Home Basic which provides "the core experience of Windows Vista", while computers with "Premium Ready" stickers are capable of running the operating system's advanced features.
Windows Vista Home Basic edition lacks the Aero interface, Media Center capabilities, Flip 3D window-switching and other features available in other Windows Vista versions. These features are what consumers perceive as Windows Vista, the complaint alleges, seeking class certification and unspecified damages.