Windows 8 ban may open doors in China

With Microsoft Inc's Windows 8 now banned from being installed on Chinese government computers, domestic operating system developers are seeking niches in the world's biggest personal computer market.

The country's relatively large OS developers, including China Standard Software Co and National Fundamental Software of China Ltd, have fresh opportunities, but their products face long and tough tests.

Last week, Windows 8 was banned from all desktops, laptops and tablet PCs purchased by State organs. The announcement made by the Central Government Procurement Center did not make it clear whether other Windows products were prohibited as well.