And to a limited number of Customer Preview Program participants

Oct 10, 2006 06:33 GMT  ·  By

Well, Windows Vista Release Candidate 1 is finally out. Microsoft is even providing three links. Nonfunctional as yet, but there is a reason. As of now, the RC2 version of the OS or Build 5744 is only available to Technical Beta Testers, TAP Testers, and MSDN/TechNet subscribers.

"People asked for it, and here it is, Windows Vista RC2! We wanted you to be the first to get these bits; next week they'll be available to a broader set of customers via MSDN and TechNet. All your great feedback has helped us focus on nothing but bug fixes over the past month since RC 1 - each and every day. There are thousands of quality improvements since Windows Vista RC1. You'll probably notice improvements in performance, application compatibility, as well as fit and finish work. We will continue improving quality until RTM. If you are an ISV, please use this build (certainly at least RC1 or later) to get certified," wrote Platforms and Services Co-President Jim Allchin on Friday to Microsoft Connect for the Windows Vista Technical Beta Testers.

Following availability for MSDN and TechNet subscribers, Microsoft will deliver Vista Build 5744 to a select pool of Customer Preview Program participants for a limited time only.

"You are integral to this creation and refinement process. We are just around the corner from RTM and shipping this great product to the world. This will be the last build made available prior to RTM, so please keep the feedback coming so we can hit the finish line. Thanks for your help in finishing the job!" added Allchin addressing the OS testers.

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