Microsoft confirms the many flavors of Windows 7

Despite what we hoped in thinking that Microsoft may have learned a lesson with the many available versions for Windows Vista, it seems they are determined to make the same mistake with Windows 7. So, just how many versions are we talking about? Six in total, and if you ask me, that is about three or four more than we need. Of course, it may not be all that terrible considering most consumers will only have to choose between Home Premium, Professional and possibly Starter. All-in-all, here are the versions will see and a little glimpse into what each will offer:
- Windows 7 Starter: Ability to run three concurrent applications, improved taskbar, JumpLists and the ability to join a Home Group.
- Windows 7 Home Basic: Available only in emerging markets.
- Windows 7 Home Premium: Aero Glass, advanced windows navigation, handwriting recognition, multi-touch and Windows Media Center.
- Windows 7 Professional: Ability to join a managed network, advanced network backup and Location Aware Printing.
- Windows 7 Enterprise: bitLocker, DirectAccess and AppLocker. Limited to bulk business sales.
- Windows 7 Ultimate: Includes everything from the lower versions.
And keep in mind, for those of us who are testing (and getting used to) the current beta version of Windows 7, we are using Windows 7 Ultimate, which will be available only in limited quantities.
Read [Geekzone]
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I’m not sure I understand the logic behind the Starter version. I guess their assumption is that it’s an intro package and that when you understand how totally limited it is, you’ll switch to Home premium, or go back to XP. I have to wonder how much person-on-the-street marketing research they actually did. If they had, they’d understand that with today’s hardware no one will spend a few bucks less on a new machine to be limited with Starter. On the other hand, no one in their right mind is going to upgrade from XP to Starter anyway. Redmond, sometimes you really amaze me.
on February 4, 2009 at 10:30 AM - LINK