Source: Beta of Windows Vista due Wednesday

Iria

Microsoft is expected to release a test version of the next version of Windows on Wednesday morning, according to a source familiar with the company's plans.

The Beta 1 version of Windows Vista isn't expected to have the look and feel of the final operating system. However, it is expected to reflect key changes that Microsoft is making under the hood of its flagship operating system.

Microsoft said on Friday that it was renaming the operating system, which had been known for years only by its code name, Longhorn. The company also promised that the long-anticipated beta version would ship by Aug. 3.

Windows enthusiast site WinBeta reported earlier Tuesday that the Beta 1 version was expected to come out on Wednesday.

A more feature complete test version is expected to arrive by early next year as Microsoft aims to have the final release of Windows Vista available in time to be on PCs that ship during next year's holiday shopping season.
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Read More / Source: ZDNet