And now… the day we’ve all been waiting for… is finally here!
Windows 7 has been released to the general public today!
Windows 7 has been in development for 3 years and is largely based on feedback from users on Windows Vista. A public beta was released on January 10, 2009 and a public release candidate was released on May 5, 2009. RCs expire in March-June 2010.
Windows 7 includes new features such as UAC Settings to make it less annoying while still having it on and a new taskbar featuring pinned icons and the new jump lists.
Microsoft has done a lot of promotions for Windows 7 and listened to users’ feedback to make this new version of Windows as best as possible. It has received generally positive reviews so far.
One of Microsoft’s Windows 7 promotions is the #WinWin7 giveaways on Twitter, where followers of @MSWindows can a chance to win prizes like Windows 7, Cans of Soda (including Bing branded Spring Water), Microsoft Zune, Microsoft WebCams, Keyboards, and more.
Windows 7 comes in many different flavors. Not sure which one to get or what features each has? Learn more with the comparison chart on Wikipedia.
Windows 7 can be purchased from the Microsoft Store or at a computer store near you
Special Offers from Microsoft
- If you are a U.S. college student or someone with a valid .edu email address, you can order Windows 7 Home Premium or Professional for only $29.99 (+$13 shipping included if you want a CD also). Learn more about this special offer. (via Win741)
- A Home Premium Family Pack Upgrade is available for only $149.99 which lets you upgrade 3 computers to Home Premium, which is a savings of over $200 compared to buying 3 individual Home Premium Upgrades.
See our timeline of the history of Microsoft Windows here.
Are you planning to upgrade to the new Windows 7? Vote in the poll below!
