Microsoft has confirmed that it’s finished tinkering with Windows 7 and released the code to manufacturing.
RTM occurs when Microsoft officially signs off the code, and it will now be handed over to PC makers to be installed on new machines, burnt to CDs and uploaded to Microsoft’s servers ready for download.
From a project management side, Windows 7 has already proved a massive success for Microsoft, with the team consistently hitting deadlines and launching a remarkably stable beta. Indeed, it was so stable Microsoft skipped further betas and headed straight to the Release Candidate.
Windows 7 is set for a consumer launch on 22 October, though IT pros can look forward to getting their hands on the final build on 6 August. Volume license customers will receive it a day later.
Speaking on a blog post, Windows 7 evangelist Brandon LeBlanc revealed that over 10 million people had submitted feedback during the beta and Release Candidate stage.
“Our customers also told us that fundamentals on both the hardware and software side was extremely important. Windows 7 today runs great on the broadest array of hardware types ranging from netbooks to high-end gaming machines. We worked closely with OEMs so that their PCs delight customers with the new features in Windows 7,” he concludes.
One potential disappointment is that it appears the UK will not receive the discounted Family Pack version which allows customers to install Windows 7 on multiple machines.
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