Windows 7 - it's the 'new' Vista.

Microsoft have shown their hand and announced that Windows 7, the successor to the much panned Windows Vista, will be released on the 22nd October 2009. Those of you with a reasonable memory will remember that Vista had a pretty troubled launch, being delayed, then delayed again, then finally released to a generally unimpressed public.

However, this time Microsoft hope things will be a little different.

They released a 'public beta' test version of the operating system to their technical partners a few months ago, and to the general public last month. Feedback from these tests has so far thrown up few bugs and Microsoft are now confident enough in their product to go full steam ahead for an October launch.

Why October?

Well, OEM partners and manufacturers were very upset with the release of Vista as it was delayed until after Christmas 2006. This meant that anyone looking to buy a new PC at Christmas time (the biggest computer buying time of the year) was left with a tough decision - buy an XP PC now, or hang on for Vista. This had a negative effect on sales.
Microsoft will be wary about making the same mistake twice, and will be aiming the October launch to ensure that new PCs ship with Windows 7 for Christmas.

What about now - I'm planning on buying a new PC! 

If you're buying a new PC now, is it out of necessity or fancy?
If you don't need to buy now, I would suggest hanging on for a while and getting yourself a new PC with Windows 7. If your current PC has blown up, then you don't really have a lot of choice. However, Microsoft usually release an upgrade version of their new operating systems and Windows 7 should be no exception, so you can always upgrade at a later date. 

What's so good about Windows 7?

We aim to do a full review in next months newsletter, but as a quick summary:

• It's the product that Windows Vista should have been
• Less 'annoying' UAC (Allow/deny) prompts
• Quicker, more optimised system
• Faster loading
• Redesigned task-bar and start menu
• Initial feedback is very positive!