Microsoft had a change of heart and of plans. Back in mid January, in the session lineup of MIX 2007 there was one entitled "First Look at the Future of IE." That was it. The description of that session left little room for doubt that it was referring to Internet Explorer 8.0. "Hear what Microsoft's browser investments mean to you, and make sure you get a voice in shaping the next version of Internet Explorer. Hear about what features and layout issues are being worked on, and let us know what causes you the most problems."

However since that point, Microsoft has introduced modifications to the MIX session list. The fact of the matter is that the session mentioned above has vanished almost entirely and was replaced with this: "IE7 Past, Present, and Future - Audience(s): Business Decision Maker, Designer, Developer."

Microsoft has clarified the initial reference about the future of IE and has tied it directly to Internet Explorer 7. However, the description of the new entry keeps some parts of the old session. "Hear from Microsoft's IE7 team about the journey from mea culpa to broad market acceptance. Hear what went right, what had to be cut, and how development priorities are set. Also, understand what Microsoft's browser investments mean to you, and make sure you get a voice in shaping the next version of Internet Explorer. Hear about what features and layout issues are being worked on, and let us know what causes you the most problems."

In this context, it is safe to assume that Microsoft will focus on Internet Explorer 7 at MIX. But what about the future of Internet Explorer 7? Is version 8.0 going to be unveiled in just 62 days? If it is, it's going to be nothing more than a feature preview or an early alpha version. MIX07 will take place between April 30 and May 2 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas.