As users await the release of the next version of the Windows operating system, Microsoft is working with the government to establish secure system settings that are expected to become the Federal Desktop Core Configuration (FDCC) for Windows 7.

Earlier this month, Microsoft released the alpha version of its security guide for the new operating system. At the same time, it is working with the Defense Department to harmonize the setting with the FDCC. Ideally, the two components will constitute a single standard for secure configuration when Microsoft releases the operating system this fall.

Read More

Microsoft is offering Windows XP and Windows Vista users a special pre-order upgrade oppertunity to upgrade at a 50% discount.  Users can purchase Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade for $49 and $99 for the Windows 7 Pro upgrade edition. If you want Windows 7 hurry and pre-order now.  The offer is only valid for a few weeks in each country.  Once its over you will have to pay the full upgrade price of $119.99 for Home Premium and $199.99 for Professional.

Pre-order Windows 7 Home Premium from Amazon.com

Pre-order Windows 7 Professional from Amazon.com

When you checkout at Amazon select "Release Day Delivery" to have your copy delivered on October 22nd.

Read More

Starting June 26th when users buy a new computer from a major manufacturer with Windows Vista Premium, Business or Ultimate computer they will get a free upgrade to the corresponding version of Windows 7. Users will receive the free Windows 7 upgrade shortly after GA on October 22nd. Available world wide, users must request the free upgrade on a special Web page setup by the computer manufacturer.

Read More

Earlier this week Microsoft revealed the official Windows 7 box art that is similar but less cluttered than the leaked versions that appeared weeks ago. The goal was to simplify the packaging and make it easier to open.

We approached the packaging for Windows 7 the same way we approached the product – by listening to what our customers told us they wanted: make it a simple clean design, easy to open, and reduce waste.

Read More

The European Commission of Competition that is responsible for the Windows N (no media player) editions can claim another victory for competition today with Microsoft announcing Windows 7 only in the European union will not ship with Internet Explorer 8.  In fact, it will not ship with any Internet browser.  Computer manufacturers will have the option to install IE8 and/or any other browser.  Retail versions may include a copy of IE8 on a CD so the user can optionally install the browser. 

Is it just me or does this decision sound like it will hurt consumers more than help competition?

Read More