The promise from Microsoft is that Windows 7 will be fully compatible with the applications currently designed for Windows Vista. However, this does not exempt developers from actually testing their solutions  on Windows 7 in order to ensure compatibility with the next iteration of the Windows client. Concomitantly with the delivery of the pre-Beta bits of Windows 7 at the Professional Developers Conference in Las Vegas at the end of October, Microsoft will also debut the Windows Application Compatibility and Quality Lab.

"PDC 2008 is coming up in just a few weeks and you don’t want to miss it because that will be the first place to see the full range of advances in Windows 7, the next major version of the Windows client operating system. If you’re going to attend PDC be sure to check out the Windows Application Compatibility and Quality Lab while you’re there. This lab is available for you to test your applications for compatibility on Windows 7, and is offered free of charge,” revealed Ronan Geraghty, Developer and Platform Group, Microsoft Ireland.

Microsoft is currently accepting registrations for two-hour sessions in the Windows Application Compatibility and Quality Lab. The Redmond giant plans to have the Windows 7 testing laboratory up and running starting with October 26, namely before the beginning of the actual PDC2008 event. The lab will be open until October 30, while developers will be able to test the compatibility of their applications with Windows 7.

“The Windows Application Compatibility and Quality lab at PDC provides a private developer environment for testing and debugging application issues. Just bring in your applications to the lab where you’ll find dedicated consultants on hand to support you in investigating application compatibility and give architectural guidance,” added Denise Begley, Marketing Manager.