We’re excited to announce the availability of Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC), a pre-release version of our next-generation OS. Thanks to everyone who has participated in the Beta testing period. Your feedback was invaluable: both at an engineering level to improve the product and locally for us to understand how to help you upon launch.

What’s new in RC?

In addition to improvements in navigation, task bar and security enhancements, RC has a couple of new features we think people will like: including Windows XP Mode and Remote Media Streaming.

Install Windows 7 RC today to experience the speed, ease of use, and versatility that makes this OS a great choice for your customers and an opportunity for your business.

If you have an MSDN or TechNet subscription, you can download Windows 7 RC today; if you don’t have a subscription to either program, you can download the RC beginning May 5, 2009.

Plus, the Windows 7 Online Readiness Kit includes specific tools and resources to help you prepare for new opportunities to grow your business.  Here are just a few:

Attend the virtual Windows 7 Partner Readiness Day – May 7, 2009

Join us for this virtual event—available at no charge. Learn about Windows 7 from Microsoft executives and product experts. And take advantage of readiness and marketing tools to help you prepare for Windows 7 business opportunities. Register today to reserve your place!

Reminders

1. Limited time to test Windows 7 – To avoid interruption, you’ll need to rebuild your test machine using a valid version of Windows before the software expires. Windows will notify you that the expiration process is beginning and two weeks later your PC will begin shutting down every two hours. The Beta expires on August 1, 2009, and bi-hourly shutdowns will begin July 1, 2009. The RC will expire June 1, 2010, and the bi-hourly shutdowns will begin on March 1, 2010. In both cases, you’ll need to rebuild your test PC to replace the OS and reinstall all your programs and data.
2. Path to RC – If you are running Windows 7 Beta or Windows XP, you’ll need to back up your data (preferably on an external device) and then do a clean installation of Windows 7 RC. After installing Windows 7, you will need to reinstall applications and restore your files. If you are running Windows Vista, you can upgrade to RC. (Learn more about installing Windows).

Next Steps

1. Install Windows 7 RC and Windows XP Mode.
2. Chose from an array of new training opportunities
3. Visit the Microsoft Partner Portal to get the latest product content.
4. Demonstrate and recommend Windows 7 to your customers.

Note: Due to high demand, MSDN and Technet sites are currently experiencing problems. We hope the situation will be resolved in the next 24 hours and apologize for any inconvenience.

Thanks,

Satish Kanwar
Breadth Channel Development
Microsoft Canada