Windows 7 Could Be Released before mid 2010

[DtraiN]

With the warm reception and the solid feel of the Windows 7 public beta, most are expecting the new operating system from Microsoft sooner rather than later. Microsoft, however, has remained tight-lipped on any earlier-than-expected release date, even hedging that we may not see it until 2010.

ZoomMicrosoft has told everyone that Windows 7 may not ship until early 2010, but we’re starting to see signs pointing to a release that will happen sometime this year. Granted, the original date the software giant gave was for 2010, and it would be foolish for the company to promise a new date if it is still unsure if it can deliver.

Even at CES 2009, just when Microsoft announced the Windows 7 public beta, Windows executive Bill Veghte said regarding either a 2009 or 2010 release, “I'm telling them that it could go either way. ... We will ship it when the quality is right, and earlier is always better, but not at the cost of ecosystem support and not at the cost of quality.”

The Inquirer points to a webcast where Microsoft Technical Fellow Mark Russinovich said that Windows 7 would be sent to manufacture three years after Vista did the same, which was in October 2006. Of course, that could be an approximate ballpark date, but it does lend hope for those who really want Windows 7 in time for Christmas.

CNet cites PC industry sources as saying that they have heard that Windows 7 is on track for a holiday release, which is what OEMs want as it would help boost sales of new computers.

It’s hard to see Windows 7 not being ready for consumption for another 10 months. The public beta that some enthusiasts are running as their primary OS is set to expire on August 1, 2009. It would be an all-too-perfect situation if those users would be able to transfer from the beta version to the final version, though expecting Windows 7 to be in a retail box by summer might be a little optimistic.

Still, the evidence is growing. Just last week we saw an early proposal for the free upgrade program for those who purchase a Vista-equipped machine after July 1, 2009.


- Courtesy of Tom's Hardware

[DtraiN]

Vista to Windows 7 Free Upgrade Plans Leaked



From reports of the beta experience, Windows 7 is the new Microsoft OS that everyone’s been waiting for -- for both XP and Vista users. Some consumers can’t afford to wait, however, need to purchase new hardware soon. For those such consumer, and those on the fence, Microsoft will offer a program where those who purchase a new PC with Vista within a certain date range will be eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 7.

Tech ARP now claims to to have obtained documents Microsoft sent to OEMs detailing its Windows 7 Upgrade Program. The information is supposedly from December 10, making it entirely possible for conditions to change, though what we’ve read seems believable.

All PCs bought with a Windows Vista license on or after July 1, 2009 to January 1, 2010 qualify for a free upgrade to Windows 7. OEMs may choose to shorten the period within those dates. All upgrade media must be shipped to end users by April 30, 2010.

Only three versions of Windows Vista are eligible, being Home Premium, Business and Ultimate. The upgrades to Windows 7 will correspond to the lateral version; so Home Premium will move to the new equivalent, Business will go to Professional, and Ultimate will be Ultimate.

Upgrades from Windows Vista Home Basic are not part of the program, and there will be no option for users to upgrade to a higher-end version of Windows 7 through the free upgrade program. New computers sold with Windows XP also will not be supported.

While upgrades from a 64-bit version of Vista will get you a 64-bit version of Windows 7, it’s unclear whether or not users can opt to go from 32-bit to 64-bit. It’s certain, however, the the software upgrade process will not allow an in-place upgrade from 32-bit to 64-bit.

Those who do receive the free upgrade to Windows 7 will have both options of performing an in-place upgrade as well as doing a clean install.

Although the information does seem to make sense, Microsoft isn’t confirming nor denying any of it. "Microsoft often explores options with our partners to determine product offerings," the Microsoft spokesperson told Betanews. "We are not announcing anything new at this time."

[Schlup]

I have $5 that says they release it 4th quarter 2009.

[CptainCrunch]

Not taking that bet. We will see it 4th of 09.

Crunch

[Schlup]

Anybody else want to bet against me...I always love easy money!

[Silvir]

Betting money is forbidden, but food, now that's a different story... but this is not a good bet...