Microsoft unveiled on Thursday the release to manufacturing (RTM) of Windows XP 7 Mode.

XP mode allows users to run older applications that may not be compatible with Vista or Windows 7 operating system Windows 7. It is aimed primarily at small and medium enterprises, and works with the RC and the release to manufacturing (RTM) Windows 7 version's Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise.

The final version of Windows XP Mode will be available on October 22, while equipment manufacturers "will be able to offer Windows XP on your PC mode based on their manufacturing programs," Microsoft's Brandon LeBlanc wrote in a blog.

"We expect many applications of Windows XP to support Windows 7 However, Windows XP mode is intended to serve as an added safety net for small and medium enterprises can migrate and run Windows 7 without any roadblocks" Leblanc he wrote. "Windows 7 Professional is designed to meet the needs of small and medium enterprises".

Microsoft made the release candidate (RC) version of XP mode available in August.