Microsoft Vista Consumer Release Set for Jan. 30

Microsoft, the world’s leading producer of software, on Wednesday said it had finished up development of the software code behind its much-anticipated—and oft-delayed—Windows Vista operating system (OS), and that the software will be available to consumers on Jan. 30, the Associated Press reports via MercuryNews.com.

Speaking in a conference, Jim Allchin, co-president of the Microsoft division that encompasses Windows, said the software code was released to manufacturing (RTM) Wednesday, according to MercuryNews.com.

The RTM means that hardware vendors can now begin configuring their machines and installing the software on PCs that will be listed for sale in January.

Microsoft recently announced plans to release both Vista and its Office 2007 software suite on Nov. 30 to enterprises, and Allchin confirmed those dates, MercuryNews.com reports.

It typically takes a period of time for enterprises to begin widespread use of a new OS after it’s released, as it needs to be vetted with individual systems employed at each business locale, so it is not currently clear when such organizations will begin using the software, MercuryNews.com reports.

The Vista upgrade will be the first major enhancement to the Windows operating system in more than five years, and it will include improved graphics and enhanced file search functionality, as well as updated security safeguards, according to MercuryNews.com.

Vista’s most recent delay meant that Microsoft would not release the software before the holidays—a move that frustrated PC and hardware vendors looking to cash in on the profitable season. To allay some of the concerns on the part of these vendors, Microsoft recently announced an initiative under which it will give out Vista upgrade coupons to people who purchase Vista-compatible PCs between Oct. 26, 2006, and March 15, 2007.

Related Links:

• Beyond Vista (CIO editorial feature)

• Microsoft Vista to Get VoIP

• Simultaneous Launch of Vista and Office 2007 Planned

• Microsoft Offers Windows Vista Upgrade Coupons

This article is posted on our Microsoft Informer page. For more news on the Redmond, Wash.-based powerhouse, keep checking in.

Check out our CIO News Alerts and Tech Informer pages for more updated news coverage.