Next Version of Windows? Call it '7'

CNet has the news that Microsoft is currently aiming to release the next version of the Windows operating system in about three years. Previously known as Vienna, the OS is now simply known internally as '7'. After achieving a quality product, the article states, Microsoft's big goal with 7 is to recapture a regular release schedule for their operating system product. From the article: "Like Vista, Windows 7 will ship in consumer and business versions, and in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. The company also confirmed that it is considering a subscription model to complement Windows, but did not provide specifics or a time frame. Next up on Microsoft's agenda is Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista, which is expected before year's end. The discussion of Windows' future isn't surprising, given that Microsoft has been criticized by business customers for delays related to Vista. Many business customers pay for Microsoft's software under a license agreement called Software Assurance."

Comments

Re:Didn't we just leave this party?

[Allador]

If MS could figure out how to run both 32 and 64 bit code at the same time [such as how at least one other major OS can], it would greatly aid both developers and end-users. Have you never run an x64 version of Windows? Thats how it works now. In fact, you'll notice that when you install software, if its 64-bit, it goes in Program Files, and if its 32-bit, it goes into Program Files (x86).

Most 32-bit code runs just fine on 64-bit windows. Where it doesnt falls nicely into a few categories:

1. Systems software.

2. Poorly Designed Software.

3. Drivers.

1 and 3 are no-brainers. 2 is the cause of much of what you see. For example, how many anti-virus systems are there where the actual anti-virus code works just fine on 32-bit and 64-bit systems, but their management software (just GUI and messaging) wont run on 64-bit systems. This is a perfect example of poorly built software.

Re:mac os 7.5

[zmollusc]

Funny you should say that, but i recenty got a couple of old bondi blue imacs. I had never used one, but can remember when they were new and being praised as so much better than the equivalent windows boxes. I was surprised to find they seemed as crash-prone and craptacular as win 95. This was os 7.5.something. Now i am curious if os X is as shabby as XP. And OS/2 2.1 knocked them both into a cocked hat. I still miss Neko.