Windows 7 now available for beta download

Windows 7 beta is the software giant’s next-generation PC operating system, and can be downloaded by MSDN, TechBeta and TechNet customers and consumers at http://www.microsoft.com/windows7. Meanwhile, Windows Live is a free suite of communications and sharing applications, including Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Mail and Windows Live Photo Gallery. Together with Internet Explorer 8, currently Windows Live is now available for download at http://www.windowslive.com/explore, or automatically via Microsoft Update for current customers. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer says the company has paid special attention to performance, reliability, security, compatibility and battery life. He also suggests Windows 7 makes everyday tasks faster and easier, thanks to a more streamlined and intuitive design, while access to the applications and files people use most often are also accelerated through features such as Jumplists, Previews and the new Taskbar. As for utilities, the new Home Group feature makes it easier for people to connect multiple PCs to share printers and access files. Also, new multi-touch technology in Windows 7 will enable people with touch-screen monitors to use multiple fingers to interact with their PC screens in a more intuitive way, says Ballmer. “Windows 7 and Windows Live are part of an incredible pipeline of consumer technology that is making it easier than ever for people to communicate, share and get more done,” he says.