Windows Vienna and Windows 7. Vienna is the first codename for Vista's successor. Microsoft has failed to confirm this, and furthermore has stated that the actual codename is for inhouse use only. However, while the Redmond juggernaut has failed to disclose any public details about the next version of Windows it did publish an official response on the matter at hand.

The response can be considered a reaction to the various speculations surrounding the next version of Windows. Microsoft's response is designed to clarify the issues related to the forthcoming release of the Windows operating system, through the voice of Kevin Kutz, Director, Windows Client.

"The launch of Windows Vista was an incredibly exciting moment for our customers and partners around the world, and the company is focused on the value Windows Vista will bring to people today. We are not giving official guidance to the public yet about the next version of Windows, other than that we're working on it. When we are ready, we will provide updates," Kutz explained.

First and foremost, Microsoft's position has marketing all over it. The Redmond Company cannot afford to shift the focus of the media outlets and the consumers away from Windows Vista and to the next version of the operating system. As the anticipation built around Vista has begun to dissipate with the commercial availability of the operating system, Microsoft is aiming to prolong its momentum as far as possible.

"No official guidance yet; company will provide more details when ready," said Microsoft. But how healthy is Microsoft's strategy to keep the consumers in the dark? The Redmond Company needs to deliver clarification and not confusion to its users, and take into consideration how this hush hush plan for the next version of Windows will backfire. Because it will backfire, as speculations will grow and grow.