14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is pushing ahead with the final stretch associated with the development process of its next iteration of the Windows client. Windows 7 will continue to cook for a little over a month as the Redmond company is baking the RTM build, with the Release Candidate milestone continuing to be available for a taste of the platform's final development build. As Windows 7 starts on the last yards ahead of next month's release to manufacturing, the software giant is not only focusing on the testing for the operating system, but also on getting the ecosystem of hardware and software solutions orbiting Windows ready for the successor of Windows Vista. One aspect of the company's efforts is the Windows 7 RC Training Kit for Developers.
“The Windows 7 Training Kit for Developers includes presentations, hands-on labs, and demos. This content is based on Windows 7 RC and provides an early peak to our final training. This training kit is designed to help you learn how to build applications that shine on Windows 7 by utilizing key features such as: Taskbar, Libraries, Multi Touch, Sensors and Location, Ribbon, Trigger Start Services, Instrumentation and ETW, application compatibility,” Microsoft explained.
Obviously, Windows 7 introduces an array of new features and capabilities that were not available with its precursors. In order to deliver a top user experience on the next iteration of the Windows client, developers will have to tailor their programs to the details that make Windows 7 stand out of the crowd. Apps that take advantage of the Superbar enhancements, that follow the new graphical user interface design guidelines and the compatibility requirements are bound to feel right at home on the Windows 7 desktop.
Microsoft started offering Windows 7 RC to the public on May 5th, 2009. The Redmond company is now working toward the RTM deadline, which is planned for the second half of July 2009. Windows 7 general availability has been scheduled for October 22, 2009.
32-bit and 64-bit Windows 7 (Release Candidate) RC Build 7100.0.090421-1700 is available for download here.