Here’s an interesting insight on Microsoft’s delaying consumer release of Vista to early 2007. CNN reports that competitors and providers of alternative products are likely to benefit from the delay. So instead of Windows Vista and Vista-preinstalled computers being the hot items this coming holiday season, it’s likely to be consoles, Apple computers and other consumer electronics.

Analysts say consumers who were considering buying a new PC this holiday season may now opt for a fancy new television, a rival Apple computer or even Microsoft’s own Xbox 360 videogame console, giving an unexpected boost to companies that make those products.

Still, it’s sad that PC retailers are set to expect a slack market this year, with buyers putting off PC purchases (and that of peripherals such as higher-end graphics cards) up to until Vista is released. After all, why spend extra bucks for that upgrade?