Complete Systems Design Information Technology Solutions

October 30, 2008

Microsoft demonstrated some of the new features of Windows 7, the next version of Windows to replace the often criticized version of Windows for desktop users at the Professional Developers Conference this week.

Features are important but hopefully Microsoft is beginning to learn that performance was one of the biggest downfalls of Vista.   The main function of an OS is to let you boot, shut down, open applications and transfer files quickly.  Bells and whistles might improve your company image as being more hip but it isn't going to get businesses to upgrade their operating systems.   Productivity is the main function of a business OS - that is why MS was the preferred desktop OS for so many businesses.   While Apple has been improving the business functionality of their OS, MS got caught up in making transparent borders without concentrating on performance.

Initial reports of Windows 7, say that MS has been trying to improve performance so don't give up on MS yet.   There are some other improvements in Windows 7 according to initial reports.   Some include less steps to get to key functions such as wireless networks and network printing.   A useful feature is the automatic split screen functionality when dragging windows to the sides of the screen.  Built in Bluetooth headset functionality will be a welcome addition as more people consider VOIP for their desktop.   The sidebar for your gizmos is no longer there - you can use your whole screen for widgets.   Windows home networking is supposedly easier to set up which is good as many people who had luck with Windows XP home networks complained about Vista.

Let's hope that the actual product is as well developed as MS is claiming.  I'll keep both eyes wied open as MS promised much of this with Vista.

Read the Full Article - Arstechnica