Just one week short of the first anniversary since Windows Vista hit the shelves, Microsoft introduced a brand-new version of the operating system. In this context, the high-end edition of Vista now comes to the table with a little extra kick. The Redmond company has entered a partnership with the U.S. computer manufacturer Dell and (RED), an initiative fathered by U2 lead singer Bono and DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa) Chairman Bobby Shriver. As a direct consequence, Microsoft and Dell will be delivering a total of four products under the (RED) product umbrella brand. Each sale of a (Red) co-branded product benefits sick women and children in Africa via donations made to The Global Fund. In the end, the money will serve to pay for antiretroviral medication for HIV, as well as for AIDS treatment.

"(RED) is not a charity. It's a business model. Before there was a (RED), private sector contribution to the Fund was $6 million," Susan Smith-Ellis, chief executive of (RED) revealed to Microsoft Watch, adding that contributions jumped to $54 million, mainly due to (PRODUCT) RED. "Dell and Microsoft give us exposure in 30 countries on five continents."

"We've taken Windows Vista Ultimate to the power of (RED). It has the power, security, and mobility features you need for work and all of the entertainment features you want for fun. It's enhanced with (PRODUCT) RED wallpapers, gadgets, and a unique screen saver and DreamScene," Microsoft revealed.

Dell and Microsoft will offer Windows Vista Ultimate preloaded on the XPS M1330 and XPS M1530 notebooks, as well as the XPS One desktop. Dell will also be offering the Dell 948 All-In-One Printer. The products do not come with any extra charge for the end consumer, but for each Microsoft and Dell will make a donation to The Global Fund. The two companies will donate $50 for every purchase of a (RED) XPS M1530 or (RED) XPS M1330) and $80 (RED) XPS One desktop.

In this manner, Dell and Microsoft will join companies such as Armani, Apple, Gap, Motorola, and Hallmark, that have already jumped onboard the (RED) initiative. Furthermore, it seems that the duo will also feature a 30-second advertisement of their (RED) product during the Super Bowl.

The Windows Vista Ultimate (RED) edition is not just your average Vista Ultimate SKU. It has been customized to tailor the (RED) initiative. The Vista Ultimate (RED) edition will offer users a personalized (RED) experience with six new wallpapers, a total of two Sidebar gadgets and one screensaver, as well as one animated background for DreamScene.