Windows 7

Posted by omni on March 9th, 2009 at 12:22pm

Microsoft’s List of Improvements to Windows 7

Microsoft has released a lengthy list of 36 improvements it plans to make to the release candidate for Windows 7, though they didn’t provide any details on when that RC might actually be available.

The Windows team separated the updates into nine categories, including the desktop experience, touch, and Windows Media Player. Desktop tweaks received the most attention, with 10 expected changes.

Microsoft has incorporated its “Aero Peek” window transparency tool to the ALT+TAB function to give you a better idea of the items you have open on your desktop.

The RC will also make it easier to open files with a specific program, now allows for 24-39 percent more icons to be displayed before the taskbar scrolls, and makes it easier to see what files are open when items do scroll, among other changes.

The release candidate will also include Internet radio playback that is “more reliable and resilient”. Microsoft will also no longer interrupt content playing via Media Player if the user inserts a USB drive.Full Story

Windows 7 Will Have IE 8 On-Off Switch

Microsoft said the upcoming public release candidate of Windows 7 will include the ability turn off Internet Explorer 8, which is the target of antitrust charges.

The option will be available through a control panel called “Windows Features,” which will allow IE 8 to be turned off. The feature does not uninstall the browser. Instead, it deletes the IE 8 executable file “iexplore.exe.” All other components remain, and the browser can be turned back on through the same panel.

The governing body could require Microsoft to distribute Windows in the European Union without IE, or offer an installation screen that gives consumers a choice of which browser to install. It’s too soon to say whether Microsoft’s latest move will satisfy the EC. Full Story

Tags: WIndows 7

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