The countdown to Windows 7 has begun. The first test-code version of Microsoft’s next operating system (OS) got its public airing, at least to Windows developers, at the end of October.
Now, every PC user wants to know whether the product can right all the wrongs inflicted by Windows Vista.
The early signs are promising. Although we’re perhaps 18 months away from seeing the final version, the pre-beta code suggests Microsoft has taken Vista criticism on board and is planning an OS that’s altogether less annoying.
It says a lot about Microsoft’s strategy that, rather than boasting about the flashy new features that are going in, the company is talking more about the things that are either being stripped out or put on a leash.
For instance, every Vista user will know about the nagging security feature User Account Control (UAC). Even Microsoft execs now admit that it was one of Vista’s “most controversial” features, and that its “unnecessary or duplicated prompts” convinced many people to disable it. UAC still exists in Windows 7, but it’s less of a pest and easier to adjust.
Then there’s compatibility. As Windows 7 is based on the same technical underpinnings as Vista, the newer OS shouldn’t require new drivers for peripherals: if something works with Vista, it should work with Windows 7. And there’s less of an emphasis on bundling a plethora of rarely used applications – if you want Microsoft’s basic email, photo gallery and video-editing tools, you’ll be free to download them from Windows Live Essentials, but they won’t be preinstalled by default.
Other changes have been made to the look and feel of the OS, although Microsoft isn’t boasting about 3D interfaces and flashy effects. The Taskbar gets an overhaul, but the redesign appears more subdued than in previous versions.
All of this paints a positive picture of Windows 7, but it pays to be careful when evaluating software previews. Cast your mind back to the months and years leading up to Vista’s launch, and many commentators predicted the OS would be a big step forward. This month I took a quick look at our own coverage of the build-up to Vista’s launch, and saw that we described the OS as Microsoft’s “super-slick replacement for Windows XP”. We also concluded that the long delays in getting Vista out the door were due to the software giant “taking the time to ensure its new product is up to scratch”. It’s probably fair to say we were wrong on both counts.
So, while we’ve got the first screenshots of Windows 7 and more details about other new features in our January issue, nobody’s in a position to draw too many conclusions yet. We’ve got a full preview of the pre-beta lined up for next month’s issue – in the meantime, check out our in-depth online Windows 7 review for continuing coverage of Windows 7 as more information about the OS becomes available.
Treat yourselves
Although the jury’s still out on Windows 7, this month’s issue includes plenty of products that we can endorse. We’re now in the peak sales period for computing and consumer electronics goods, and our Ultimate buyers’ guide should give you a few ideas for your next purchase. Whether you’re buying a present for a friend or family member or you’re on the lookout for a new gadget for yourself, pick up a copy of our January issue to find out which products top our list.
Visit PC Advisor's dedicated Microsoft News Spotlight for the latest news on the software giant
Comments
Georgie said: I wonder how many of those dumb Vista asses buy a brand new faltering car and happily sing it will all be nicely sorted out in around 18 months time SweetYea the more one hears from them the more sad and ridiculous they appear And that includes the ground knuckling computer bullsing advisors
uk said: play games email and surf websafely why do i want a operating system that sucks power and memory like a vampire does blood
Geoff said: Now pick up a copy of our March issue to find out which products top our list You guys must be writing on the Pineapple Express and piling up towards the rear junctionCant we at least happily see 2008 out first Zombies are a must for the top of your list
John said: Phew An honest journalist - who admits the companys mistakes Thanks Paul
He wasn't wrong then said: Vista has at least unearthed another couple
Ms Tech said: Surely if they were playschool computer journalists theyd be playing with those shiny Mac tech toys
Vista User said: I love Vista And so does my wife Never had one lesson All works fine Hey Vista has at least unearthed the Fools - have you actually installed it
In other words said: we can all expect more of the the same aero filled hot air from the PC screeders who pretend to be independent and objective AdvisorsAt least The watcher didnt foolishly try to defend their past inept and questionable Vista pitchRead What Car - Tips for the battered 2nd hand salesman edition recentlyRemember ignorance of the truth is no excuse for promoting faulty goods especially when silver shekels are clocked
The watcher said: Vista has at least unearthed the Fools nice name by the way Id rather be a fool than a mind-numbingly boring whining self-obsessed prattling old oh yeah fool
Vista has at least unearthed t said: Now every PC user wants to know whether the W7 product can right all the wrongs inflicted upon us by the pathetic Microsoft hat tipping vomiters and play school computer journalists including that all singing mutton-jeff leader within the walking dead forumsMost of you it got it badly wrong And to this day you are still castigating users for criticising your beloved felled Vista Shame on you and your profession Many like me will continue to be the objective and truthful watchers of W7