Microsoft isn't the only company denying equal online footing to Windows XP users.

Apple will not give PC users access to iCloud – its great digital locker in the sky – if their machines are running Microsoft's aging but still popular Windows XP.

Tucked at the bottom of the iCloud announcement, Apple says you'll need a PC running Windows Vista or Windows 7 to jump into Steve Jobs' version of the interwebs.

That means no Windows XP.

Outlook 2010 or 2007 are recommended for accessing contacts and calendars.

According to the latest stats, this means that almost half of all PC users will not be able to access iCloud.

Microsoft was the first to stick it to Windows XP users with Internet Explorer 9. The latest version of Microsoft's browser, released this year, does not – and will never – run on Windows XP. Microsoft is trying to steer people towards Windows 7. And rightfully so.

Bootnote

Tip of the hat to Tuaw for picking up Apple's dropped ball. ®