With the commercial availability of Windows Vista out of the way, Microsoft has also announced that it has made available two extras for the high-end version of the operating system. BitLocker and EFS Enhancements and Hold 'Em Poker Game designed for Windows Vista Ultimate are now available. Moreover, Nick White, Microsoft Product Manager, has revealed that both BitLocker and EFS Enhancements and Hold 'Em Poker Game have been released concomitantly with the consumer launch of Vista via Windows Updates.

"Exclusive to Windows Vista are Windows Ultimate Extras. These cutting-edge programs, innovative services, and unique publications provide a richer computing experience for Windows Vista Ultimate users.Whenever a new Windows Ultimate Extra is ready for distribution by Microsoft, you will see the Ultimate Extra control panel inform you that there are new extras to download. Simply download and install the Extras and begin enjoying these exclusive software and services that give your Windows Vista experience an extra lift," revealed Microsoft.

As you are able to see from the picture at the bottom, users will automatically receive a notification of the availability of the extras provided they are running a copy of Windows Vista Ultimate.

However, the two extras are just the first examples of a plethora of applications and services that will become available for Windows Vista from third party sources.

Programs including the New York Times Reader, Yahoo Messenger for Windows Vista, North Face's kiosk, Fox Sports multimedia application, QuickBooks 2007, StandOut desktop application and iBloks' multimedia-sharing wares will also be made available for Vista along with an estimated 1,400 applications from independent software vendors.