Windows upgrade assistant clarification please

[Belly]

I've just ran the Windows 8 upgrade assistant on my XP Desktop and it lists a number of programs as "Paid update available".

Could someone please advise me if that means I can still use the existing (old) program on Windows 8 but they would prefer that I purchase the update?

Will the old program work and they are just advising me there is a more modern version in the hope that I purchase it?

As an example I have a legal copy of MS Office Professional 2003 which I'm happy with and I really don't want to have to fork out for an update.

A guy in PC World today advised me that a third party might be taking on updates for Windows XP. I might start another thread and ask that question.

 

[Belly]

Thanx Beerbaron. It looks as though I might keep two desktop PCs on my table, one running the old stuff, not connected to the internet and a new one giving me web access. MS Office Professional is far too expensive. Luckily enough my version of Photoshop is compatible but some of the plug-ins (vertus fluid mask, Alien Skin) might NOT be and that would be further expense. Thanx again