Just as it is cooking Windows Vista Service Pack 2 and the first Beta of Windows 7, Microsoft has added a new item to its lineup of Vista editions. Come December 15, consumers will be able to get their hands on the standalone SKU of Windows Vista Service Pack 1 Ultimate Product (RED). Introduced at the start of 2008 via a partnership with Dell and the Product (RED) initiative, Vista (RED) is designed to fight AIDS in Africa, with Microsoft sharing a portion of its profits with the Global Fund. According to the company, the standalone edition of Vista SP1 (RED) comes to the table with fresh additions, compared with the original (RED) SKU.

“The latest version of Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT) RED includes brand new exclusive content from (PRODUCT) RED partners to personalize the desktop: Emporio Armani clock gadget and Hallmark wallpapers, (RED) and Africa-inspired graphics, new (RED) words screen savers and more,” Brandon LeBlanc, Windows communications manager, revealed on the Windows Client Communications Team.

Online retailers will be the first to start offering the standalone flavor of Vista SP1 Product (RED) in mid-December. In addition, Microsoft also plans to collaborate with select retail shops in order to sell the latest Vista edition. LeBlanc indicated that Vista SP1 Ultimate (RED) was scheduled to hit store shelves in early 2009.

In addition, via the Ultimate Steal initiative, Microsoft is offering copies of Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT) RED as upgrades for just $64.95. On top of all, the Microsoft and Product (RED) partnership with Dell will move forward, with future Dell XPS (PRODUCT) RED PCs integrating the updated Vista SP1 Ultimate (RED).

“To date - (PRODUCT) RED™ partners and events together have contributed more than $115 million to support Global Fund-financed programs that positively impact the lives of people affected by HIV and AIDS in Africa. (RED) money provides access to education, nutrition, counseling, medical services, and the two pills a day individuals need to stay alive,” LeBlanc stated.