The resources designed for developers to have their products labeled with the Compatible with Windows 7 logo have evolved into Beta stage. Microsoft has started offering the Beta development milestone of the Windows 7 Software Logo Toolkit through its Connect website to interested parties as of May 26, 2009. The toolkit is designed to provide devs with an automated command-line tool set to analyze the compliance of third-party applications with the Windows 7 Software Logo requirements. Having been released into Beta, the toolkit is now ready for software publishers to start testing their products for compatibility with the next iteration of the Windows client.

“Microsoft is pleased to announce the public availability of the Beta release for the Windows 7 Software Logo Toolkit. The toolkit allows ISVs to submit and receive the Compatible with Windows 7 logo for your products,” revealed Bruce Kyle, ISV architect evangelist. “Improvements, including self-test for applications, instant approval of passing applications, and a streamlined waiver process dramatically speed up the logo testing and the submission process. Fees for logo submissions have also been eliminated.”

The Beta development milestone of Windows 7 Software Logo Toolkit is only available for download via Microsoft Connect. On top of ensuring that their software plays nice with Windows 7, and offering consumers an easy way to recognize products that will integrate seamlessly with the successor of Windows Vista, there are additional benefits that can be accessed through the program. In this context, Kyle mentioned advantages such as co-branding, but also Microsoft partner points, and even premier placement when it comes down to online shops.

“Here are a few simple steps towards getting started. Download the Beta logo toolkit ([also included are] the logo requirements document, toolkit release notes, a toolkit user’s guide, and an overview of the submission process. Submit the test report from the toolkit via: Winqual. If a waiver is needed for a failing test case from the toolkit report, the streamlined waiver process can be initiated by completing the online form at the following link,” Kyle added.