Windows 7 sounds death knell for Vista

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User interface customisation is going to be a large part of Windows 7, with extensive use of Aero throughout on compatible systems. There will be more on-screen transparency, with the glass effect extended to the taskbar. The interface also supports multi touch from devices with compatible touch screens and track pads. Flick, pinch and rotate gestures are supported as well as the basic single-finger controls.

There will also be new deployment tools for system builders to make the OEM operating system install process easier.

However, analysts are remaining cautious with their optimism for the new platform.

“What is clear is that Microsoft has focused Windows 7 on user experience and more seamless integration with other devices running the OS. This is in order to provide a new level of flexibility and easy access to data, content and applications held in different locations,” said said Bola Rotibi, principle analyst at Macehiter Ward-Dutton.

“Many users will undoubtedly be impressed. What will be important is whether Microsoft can really demonstrate that it has learnt from the mistakes it made with Vista.”

As for what the announcement means for sales of Vista, Rotibi believes Microsoft will continue to struggle to win over users between now and the launch of Windows 7.

“Getting users to move to Vista in the meantime will however be a challenge from now on,” she added.

The pre-beta is currently only available to attendees of PDC and a small controlled group of testers. A public beta will be released early in 2009. Surprisingly, Sinofsky hinted at a quick timetable for the official release of Windows 7, either late in 2009 or early in 2010.

“Three years after the initial availability of Windows Vista would seem to be a good time to release the next Windows version, though we are not confirming any formal launch date or time for Windows 7.”

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