Microsoft Releases Windows Vista & Office 2007 Today

Microsoft has released Windows Vista and the 2007 Office System for consumers. The two flagship products, which were released to business customers on November 30, 2006, will be available for consumers starting January 30, 2007, in more than 70 countries, in 19 languages (with 99 languages anticipated by the end of the year), and at more than 39,000 retail stores and online.

Microsoft recommends machines have at least 512Mb of RAM, a 800Mhz processor and 15Gb of hard disk space. Microsoft has pledged to continue support for XP users until 2011.

The consumer launch of Windows Vista is also expected to unleash a flood of new next-generation hardware, software and entertainment devices and services. Currently, more than 1.5 million devices and peripherals are on the market that work with Windows Vista, including more than 2,500 that are Certified for Windows Vista. In addition, thousands of PC manufacturers and system builders around the globe will deliver the Windows Vista operating system and Microsoft Office 2007 on new PCs.

In the US prices start from $100 for an upgrade of Vista Home basic to $249 for the equivalent Ultimate version.

Read Also:
Microsoft Launches Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 to Consumers Worldwide (Microsoft Press Release)
Microsoft starts Vista hard sell (BBC News)