'Windows 7' May Arrive in Second Half of 2009 -- Virtualization Review

'Windows 7' May Arrive in Second Half of 2009

Following reports that Microsoft released "Milestone 1" for Windows 7 to several partners, TG Daily reports that software will get released in late 2009.

By Becky Nagel
01/18/2008

Following reports that Microsoft recently released the "Milestone 1" code for Windows 7 -- its next desktop operating system following Vista -- to several partners, TG Daily is reporting that a new roadmap for the software shows a release during the second half of 2009.

Microsoft has said previously that Windows 7 (previously code-named "Blackcomb" and "Vienna") is scheduled for release in 2010. The roadmap showing the 2009 schedule was provided to TG Daily by a source; Microsoft refused to comment on the date.

So has Windows 7 been pushed forward? Redmond magazine columnist and All About Microsoft blogger Mary Jo Foley writes that it's possible Microsoft's been planning to release Windows 7 in 2009 all along: "What better way to convince customers on the fence about upgrading to Vista or waiting for the next Windows build that they should make the move? ('Do you really want to wait at least three more years?')"

Foley points out that Microsoft had previously given a 2009 ship date for Windows 7; 2009 would fit with Microsoft's previously announced two-year release schedule; and the timing makes perfect sense for a 2009 holiday release.

"Could Windows 7 ship before Microsoft's publicly stated date of 2010? Definitely. In fact, I will almost be surprised if it doesn't," she wrote.

About the Author

Becky Nagel is the former editorial director and director of Web for 1105 Media's Converge 360 group, and she now serves as vice president of AI for company, specializing in developing media, events and training for companies around AI and generative AI technology. She's the author of "ChatGPT Prompt 101 Guide for Business Users" and other popular AI resources with a real-world business perspective. She regularly speaks, writes and develops content around AI, generative AI and other business tech. Find her on X/Twitter @beckynagel.