14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft released, at the end of July, the latest version of Windows 7 to manufacturers and it is set to make it available for a wider range of customers starting with August 6. As of tomorrow, MSDN and TechNet subscribers will have the possibility to download the latest Windows 7 bits either via Microsoft Connect or via TechNet Downloads or MSDN.
Additionally, the platform will also become available for independent software and hardware vendors via Microsoft Connect or MSDN. The Redmond company will make available only the English version of the OS for now, while access to more localized versions of Windows 7 RTM is expected to be offered in the following weeks.
“Windows 7 Professional will be available on MSDNAA as of 6th August 2009, and available through ELMS on the 15th of August,” Microsoft announced via its official “Imagine Cup New Zealand” Facebook page, Neowin reports. At the same time, the company also says, again via Facebook, “Windows 7 will not be available via Dreamspark. However, if you are an IT student you can gain access to MSDNAA from your department.”
For what it's worth, things seem to have been already carved in stone, and it remains to be seen whether MSDN subscribers will also receive access to a few language packs for Windows 7 RTM, as Microsoft previously announced. One way or the other, the localized versions of Windows 7 RTM (French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese) will be followed by the release of all remaining supported languages of the OS.
The official Windows 7 RTM English version will be available for download for Software Assurance subscribers via the Volume License Software Center site starting August 7, while Gold Certified resellers and Action Pack subscribers will have to wait for about another week before the final bits are available for them as well.