Microsoft executives officially maintain that Windows Vista is selling well and that they're happy with the operating system. Behind closed doors, however, Microsoft is working hard to make sure Windows 7 doesn't run into the same problems as its predecessor.
According to News.com, Microsoft plans to be "more careful" going public with Windows 7's future functionality, largely to avoid disappointments in case it fails to deliver. The news site quotes a Microsoft representative as saying, "We know that when we talk about our plans for the next release of Windows, people take action . . . As a result, we can significantly impact our partners and our customers if we broadly share information that later changes."
Another major problem with Vista was hardware support, and Microsoft doesn't want a repeat of the same situation there, either. InformationWeek says Microsoft has told its hardware partners to start testing their products with Windows 7 as soon as the first beta rolls out. Hardware makers that don't start testing early "won't qualify for Microsoft's Windows Logo certified compatibility program for Windows 7 or Windows Vista," InformationWeek adds.
- Mac Pros could emit carcinogenic fumes[128]
- Microsoft prolongs XP downgrades to July 2009?[85]
- Intel's top-of-the-line Core i7 could be a screamer[76]
- Apple to make next MacBooks with space-age process?[74]
- Apple threatens to shut iTunes if artist royalties increase[58]
- TR Forum Tidings: What do you look for in PC games?[58]
- Newegg Canada opens its doors[55]