Computer users have barely had a chance to load the new Windows 7 operating system on their PCs and work the bugs out, and already speculation is rife about the release of 'Windows 8.' Microsoft took a beating after the release of Vista before it was really ready for smooth operation, so the company is naturally gun shy about announcing the release of yet another system, especially so soon after a new release that has yet to prove itself. This hasn't stopped rampant speculation, however, about what the company's plans are for the new system, news of which was available to the public even before Windows 7 was released.
According to a 'leaked' spreadsheet from Microsoft's Italian subsidiary, 'Codename Windows 8' is set for release sometime in 2012, probably during the 4th quarter. Some pundits are speculating that Microsoft is planning internally for an earlier release date, but details are being held extremely close.
Software Windows 7
Chances are Microsoft is watching the consumer reaction to Windows 7 very close before making any final decision on release of the next operating system.
Early comments on Windows 7, which avoided some of the glitches that plagued Vista until patches were developed to fix them, indicate that it will live up to the company's hype. Look, though, for more 'leaks in the coming months, which will probably be timed to take the temperature of consumer reaction. More important than when, is what. Will 'Windows 8' offer anything new? If Windows 7 is working fine, why should users go to the trouble of upgrading to the new system? Windows 7 will have to establish a clear track record of being better than Vista, and the new system will have to offer users something that they want but don't get from it if they are to go to the trouble of upgrading their systems. Part of the lure will be whether or not users who get Windows 7 will be entitled to a free upgrade to the new system when it is released, and that would argue for releasing sooner rather than later.
If the answer is that the new system goes way beyond Windows 7, and if consumers are happy with 7, but not so happy that they wouldn't want more, then it is quite possible that the pundits will be right; there just might be a surprise 'early' release of 'Windows 8,' or whatever Microsoft decides to name it. At this point, even the name is uncertain, as in the 'leaked' spreadsheet, it was called 'Codename Windows 8' and asterisked, indicating the possibility that Microsoft has plans for another label for their new product. Release will also be impacted by Microsoft's plans to fully test the system before launching it. The problems with Vista, hopefully, taught the computer giant a lesson in marketing - don't sell a product until you're absolutely certain it does what it is supposed to do, or more importantly, what you claim it will do.
In the absence of definite information, the best guide for release of the new system is Microsoft's history of releases. Based on the timeline for the release of Windows 7 following Vista, the 2012 release date is probably a good bet. So, the bottom line is look for the new Windows operating system on or about December 31, 2012.
When Will Windows 8 Be Released?
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