This is Microsoft's question and the title of a post published on the IEBlog. The Redmond Company is vague to say the least in relation to the actual date. This month could mean October 10 or 31. In fact, there have been reports of an Internet Explorer 7 release concomitantly with the Redmond Company's patch Tuesday as a high-priority update.

In this context, the only official detail remains the fact that Microsoft's latest version of the IE browser is "fast approaching" its final release. The Redmond Company also stated that IE 7 will be initially made available for download and only a few weeks later will be provided via Automatic Updates.

But the big question over at Microsoft is the market status in relation to the imminent IE 7 launch. Scott Graff, Program Manager - IE7 Compatibility has addressed the issue on the IEBlog. Compatibility can be achieved via a set of actions.

Download, install and test products with IE7 RC 1.
Download the IE7 Readiness Toolkit (developer and IT Pro readiness check lists, detailed documentation on important changes in IE7, testing and debugging guidance, tools for testing, debugging and investigating issues).
Download and use the Application Compatibility Toolkit.
Visit the Microsoft Internet Explorer Developer Center.
Use the Information Index for Internet Explorer7.

"Compatibility with sites, extensions and applications has been a very high priority for us as we develop new features, enhance the existing features and move the platform forward to be more secure and standards compliant. As we make key improvements in areas such as layout and security, some changes need to be made by site owners to work smoothly with IE7. We have produced detailed documentation, tools and other resources to assist site, extension and application owners in their testing and development efforts to ensure they are compatible with IE7," wrote Graff.

Graff has also advised organizations that do not achieve compatibility in time to block the deployment of Internet Explorer 7 via Automatic Updates and to access the IE7 Support page FAQs, Release Notes, and feedback options.