Microsoft Planning Updated UI for Windows Update

Date Added: July 17, 2009 • Source: neowin

Microsoft plans to start the infrastructure update in late August, claiming "it will take a couple of months to complete the rollout." The update is required to "maintain and improve service quality, reliability, and operations." The update will simply improve the user interface for Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 computers running Windows Update, adding a more visible and detailed description of updates as well as improvements in how users are notified about service packs.

If you currently apply your updates automatically then this update will not modify the look and feel of Automatic Updates. The infrastructure update will be automatically applied for those who have Automatic Updates enabled. For those who have selected "never check for updates" this update will not be applied.

The last update for Windows Update occurred in November 2008. For more information on Windows Update please visit the Microsoft Update Team Blog.

Power Pack 3 Beta for Home Server Announced -- Includes Windows 7 Support

Date Added: July 17, 2009 • Source: daily tech

Microsoft has announced Power Pack 3 (beta) for Windows Home Server today which adds important Windows 7 support to the list of features.

• Full Image-based Backups of Windows 7 PCs. After the Windows Home Server Connector is installed on your Windows 7 PCs, Action Center should no longer display that your files are not being backed up.
• Windows 7 Libraries Support. Music, Photos and Videos shared folders from your Windows Home Server will be added to Windows 7 Libraries. Content saved to these shared folders will be able to be quickly accessed through your Windows 7 Libraries. And any application, like Windows Media Player and Windows Media Center, will be able to access content saved on your Windows Home Server through Libraries as well.
• Windows Search 4 is now included. With Windows Search 4, PP3 offers improved query search times, indexing times and reliability. Easy search through a Library in Windows 7 with files stored in multiple locations.
• Windows Media Center Enhancements. Archive old recorded TV shows onto your Windows Home Server in a variety of formats. Use Console Quick View to see statistics about your Windows Home Server through Windows Media Center.

The Windows Home Server team have not confirmed a general availability for the final bits but it's expected they will be made available shortly before the Windows 7 release on October 22.

If you are interested in testing the Power Pack 3 beta then you can sign up at Microsoft's connect site. More information on Power Pack 3 is available at the Windows Home Server team blog.

Corsair Launches Extreme Series SSD's

Date Added: July 15, 2009 • Source: corsair

The Extreme series SSDs use Samsung MLC flash memory and has been designed to be the highest performing SSDs on the market. The series also offers upgradable firmware to allow for the addition of new features like the TRIM command for Windows 7 to help maintain performance over time. Corsair says that the updates will be available from its website and that the updates can be applied without wiping the data from the drive.

"The combination of the Indilinx Barefoot controller, Samsung flash memory, and 64MB of on-board cache delivers blistering, stutter-free performance, eliminating the bottleneck imposed by traditional mechanical hard disks," said Jim Carlton, VP of Marketing at Corsair. "The new Extreme Series SSDs are ideal for use as primary drives in desktop and notebooks systems, and also for RAID 0 configurations in high-performance desktops for enthusiasts who want extreme performance."

The drives also sport a 64MB DRAM cache and have a MTBF of over 100 years. All of the drives in the series use the SATA II 3.0Gb/s interface and use a standard 2.5-inch form factor. Pricing for the SSD line is unknown at this time.

The last SSD series Corsair launched was the P256 with a larger cache and more that was priced at about $700.

Special Editions of Modern Warfare 2 Revealed

Date Added: July 15, 2009 • Source: joystiq

Infinity Ward have revealed the special edition packages for its upcoming game, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, which has become one of the most popular multi platform franchises this generation. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is being released later this year during the month of November, and as has been revealed, will be releasing in multiple editions each coming with its own set of goodies.

The first special edition that was revealed was the "Prestige" edition which will come in a rather large box holding more than a couple of items. The biggest surprise is the inclusion of night vision goggles that are apparently in full working condition, which can be displayed on a full head model included in the games box.

Also included in the "Prestige" edition is an art book full of game concept art and the game comes in a tin case, much like many other collectors editions. Rumoured many months ago, a code will also be included that lets you download the original Call of Duty on either Microsoft's XBLA or Sony's PSN.

There will also be a "Hardened" edition of the game that will be released at the same time, it includes the game in a steal tin, the art book and also the download code for the original game. Prices have been released for both packages, the "Prestige" edition will retail for $149.99 and "Hardened" will be far cheaper but without the goggles for $80.

Has the RTM Build Of Windows 7 Just Leaked?

Date Added: July 13, 2009 • Source: daily tech

As predicted, the 7600 Build of Windows 7 was reportedly released on July 13. Also as predicted, soon thereafter it was swiftly leaked out onto torrent sites.

Both 32-bit and 64-bit downloads of the new OS of the Ultimate edition were being actively hosted at press time. There is some question about whether the build is indeed the Release to Manufacturing build as rumored. This would mean that it would be almost the exact version of Windows 7 to appear on store shelves this fall, barring the discovery of a major bug in the RTM phase.

While the 7600 build made indeed be the build to see RTM, it may be the wrong version of the 7600 build. I Started Something blogger Long Zheng was the first to discover the build string -- "7600.16384.0907101945_x64fre_client_en-us_Retail_Ultimate-GRMCULXFRER_EN_DVD.iso". Some are noting that the RTM build of Windows Vista was 16386, indicating that two more compilations might be in store before the official RTM.

Microsoft has yet to comment on the leak. However, the build appears to be legitimate and almost, if not exactly, feature-identical to the RTM release. The 7600 build wasn't the only Microsoft product to be leaked as Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Conference (WWPC) kicked off in New Orleans. A technical preview of the new version of Microsoft Office -- Office 2010 -- also hit torrents.

Microsoft Unveils Office Web Applications 2010, Mobile 2010

Date Added: July 13, 2009 • Source: neowin

Company officials have posted several "what's new" videos onto the Microsoft Showcase site. The what's new videos range from Word through to Outlook and some highlight the Web Applications and "Microsoft Mobile 2010".

Office Web Applications 2010

In the what's new video for Office Web Applications 2010, Word, Powerpoint and Excel are demonstrated. Microsoft also confirms these work on PC or Mac and in Firefox.

Office Web Applications are part of Microsoft's "software plus services" initiative where the company plans to deliver all its technology in this way. As part of the next release of Office, Microsoft are planning Office Web applications - lightweight versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote - through a browser.

Running these new applications will allow individuals to use a browser to create, edit, and share Office documents wherever they are. Microsoft wants to provide a consistent Office experience, regardless of whether users are accessing their Office documents through the PC, phone, or browser.

Google Unveils Linux-based Chrome OS

Date Added: July 12, 2009 • Source: daily tech

Google publicly announced it is working on a new Linux-based operating system aimed to compete against Microsoft Windows and Apple OS X.

Chrome OS is being designed by Google engineers for netbooks and is completely independent from its Android OS currently used on a growing number of smartphones.

"Google Chrome OS is an open source, lightweight operating system that will initially be targeted at netbooks," the company said in a blog post. "Later this year we will open-source its code, and netbooks running Google Chrome OS will be available for consumers in the second half of 2010."

Windows 7 Family Pack, Anytime Upgrade Prices Leak

Date Added: July 8, 2009 • Source: neowin

Microsoft blogger, Ed Bott, has uncovered the prices for both the Windows 7 Family Pack and Anytime Upgrade options.

According to Bott various retailers have leaked the prices by mistake, which isn't the first time in the history of Windows releases. Retailer Expercom still has the prices live on their site (at the time of writing), University IT Computer Sales also had similar pricing but pulled the information - Google cached copy. Both companies are small resellers and both have assigned official Microsoft part numbers to the products. Expercom valued the Windows 7 Family Pack at $136.95 whilst University IT Computer Sales listed it as $144.95.

Expercom also have Anytime Upgrade pricing:

• UPG WINDOWS ANYTIME/W7 STARTER TO HOME PREMIUM UPGRADE Microsoft - Model 4WC-00040 $81.95
• UPG WINDOWS ANYTIME/W7 HOME PREMIUM TO PROFESSIONAL UPGRADE Microsoft - Model 7KC-00040 $90.95
• UPG WINDOWS ANYTIME/W7 HOME PRE TO ULTIMATE UPGRADE Microsoft - Model 39C-00040 $137.95

Prices could vary but keep in mind that if retailers have product codes associated to them then it's 99% that these are genuine products but that the prices could vary and may not be final.

Confirmed: Windows 7 Set To RTM on July 13th

Date Added: July 3, 2009 • Source: neowin

Earlier today the guys over at GeekSmack.net "confirmed" that Windows 7 was set to RTM (release to manufacturing) on July 13, which also coincides with Wzor's unconfirmed rumor last month. A few minutes ago sources close to the company, who wish to remain anonymous, have confirmed that Windows 7 is indeed set to RTM on July 13.

After a year of furious beta testing and continuous leaks every other week, Microsoft is finally ready to give Windows 7 the green light to hit the market. Currently the Windows 7 team is working on polishing off the RTM build so that no show-stopper bugs are present in Windows 7. The date, July 13, also coincides with the kickoff of the Worldwide Partner Conference that is taking place in New Orleans.

RTM in a nutshell is typically the final build that we will see when Windows 7 hits GA later this year (Unless, of course, there's a show-stopper bug found), but is released to manufacturers so they can work out any bugs the software may encounter with hardware devices. General availability is scheduled to launch on October 22, which will give the tech savvy world time to save up money.

So with that said TechNet, MSDN, and a few other partner connections should also be getting the RTM build on or shortly after July 13. So let the countdown begin!

Family Pack Deal Coming To Windows 7 Home Premium

Date Added: July 2, 2009 • Source: neowin

In the Home Premium version of Windows 7, the Microsoft Software License Terms contain additional information about said deal, and how it would cover up to three computers in any one household.

It states:

"If you are a "Qualified Family Pack User," you may install one copy of the software marked as "Family Pack" on three computers in your household for use by people who reside there. Those computers are the "licensed computers" and are subject to these license terms. If you do not know whether you are a Qualified Family Pack User, visit go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?Linkid=141399 or contact the Microsoft affiliate serving your country."

This text is not found on any of the other versions, but it could potentially be added at a later date, of course, although it's doubtful.

Obviously, there has been no pricing revealed for this at all, but ZDNet is under the impression that it will set a family back about $189. Additionally, Ars Technica mentions that as this is found in the license terms, it's implied that it won't just be a limited time offer. You may remember that Microsoft offered a deal like this for Windows Vista Home Premium, but it only lasted from January 30, 2007 through June 30, 2007. Ars also went ahead and asked Microsoft, but a spokesperson said that they had nothing to share right now, and that, "We continue to work with partners and expect other great deals in the future."

Microsoft Security Essentials Beta Released

Date Added: June 23, 2009 • Source: neowin

Microsoft is offering it's free anti-virus product, Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) to 75,000 lucky people today.

The company is offering the product via a beta program and will likely extend the cap of 75,000 downloads depending on demand. MSE is Microsoft's free anti-virus and anti-spyware product that is set to replace Microsoft's paid Windows Live OneCare subscription service which is set to be withdrawn a week from today.

MSE is being distributed on Microsoft's Connect site as a beta program. The build available on the connect site is 1.0.1407.00 For more information please visit Microsoft's MSE site.

Leaked Best Buy Memo Reveals Windows 7 Upgrade Pricing?

Date Added: June 7, 2009 • Source: engadget

Earlier this week Microsoft finally confirmed to the world that Windows 7 will hit general availability October 22nd, a date in which we've all been waiting for. Now that we know the date, our next question is what will Windows 7 cost consumers? Apparently Best Buy has the answer to that question, as Engadget is reporting that a leaked memo has revealed the upgrade plans for Windows 7.

According to the image above, Best Buy will offer customers to order a Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade for $49.99 and Windows 7 Professional Upgrade for $99.99. As far as I'm concerned this is going to give a huge break to today's consumers as they are tightening their pocket books in order to prevail through these tough economic times. So is this really cheaper than Windows Vista? Let's examine the costs.

When Windows Vista was launched back in November of 2006, the upgrade options and pricing were: Windows Vista Home Premium Upgrade $129.95 and Vista Business Upgrade was $199.95. With that in mind users who are upgrading from Windows Vista to Windows 7 are going to be saving between 60 and 50% this time around. Now if this is legitimate, I think it's time to say that the tech world and blogosphere alike are fixing to applause Microsoft for making the right decision.

Looking at the memo a bit further it appears that Best Buy is going to presale select Windows 7 SKUs on BestBuy.com starting June 26th.

Microsoft Store Reveals Official Windows 7 Box Art

Date Added: June 6, 2009 • Source: neowin

The box art has shown up on the official Microsoft Store page for Windows 7, which means it's pretty safe to say that this will be the final box art used for the upcoming operating system. Of course, Microsoft haven't actually confirmed themselves that this is what we will be seeing on retail shelves, but we're pretty sure it's safe to say that this is what it will be.

Long Zheng initially doubted the art (as did many others), but he stumbled upon some evidence that showed it could potentially be the real deal, but again, this seems to have all become clear now.

If this isn't good enough validation for you, then we don't know what is. So, now we have an official release date, and official box art... all we need to see now is some pricing. Everything is finally coming together for Microsoft's latest and greatest, and before you know it, we'll be out buying the software for ourselves.

Microsoft Patch Tuesday, It's A Big One

Date Added: June 5, 2009 • Source: neowin

This update will include the first ever production patch for IE8 since the release. Mac users will not receive any PowerPoint patches for this month, after heavily patching PowerPoint for Windows last month, stating it does not want to delay these patches any longer, so Mac users will have to do without.

Mac users will need to wait till July at the earliest for PowerPoint patches, as none of the analyzed exploits found on the Windows PowerPoint will reliably exploit the Mac.

The following versions of Microsoft Windows are affected and will receive updates:

• Windows 2000 Service Pack 4
• Windows XP Service Pack 2
• Windows XP Service Pack 3
• Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2 x64
• Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 (x64)*
• Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 Itanium-based systems
• Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (x64)*
• Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (x64)*
• Windows Server 2008 (Service Pack 2) (x64)*
• Windows Server 2008 (Service Pack 2) Itanium-based systems (x64)*

Logitech's G19 Finally On Sale Exclusively At The Dell Store

Date Added: May 13, 2009 • Source: Engadget

Logitech's G19 gaming keyboard is now available for purchase. But there's a catch... you can only order it via Dell's online store as they have exclusive rights to sell it for 30 days before anyone else.

Typical me... I order one. I'll let you know if it is any good and if it's good enough to warrant the $200.00 price tag. Here is the announcement via engadget.

Sling Player Mobile For iPhone Released

Date Added: May 13, 2009 • Source: SlingMedia.com

Well it took a little while but Sling Media's highly touted and anticipated iPhone app is finally here!

When connected to a Slingbox SOLO, PRO, or PRO-HD, this award winning app will play anything you can see on your TV at home on your iPhone or iPod touch. Change channels, control your DVR and watch your favorite shows right on your iPhone.

There are no monthly fees but you will have toshell out $29.99 for the app. Also note: This app is restricted to Wi-Fi only at Apple's (really AT&T's) request but that is a whole other story.

I personally own a SlingBox Pro HD and it is the GREATEST thing ever. I also purchased the iPhone app but I have to say that I'm not sure it is worth the $29.99 price tag with no 3G support. Other than that it is great... that is if you can find a Wi-Fi hotspot. Living in the New York area, finding one has not been an issue yet.

So if no 3G support and Wi-Fi access limitations are not a problem with/for you, then this app is must have for any SlingBox owner. Check out SlingMedia for the demo and more info.

Date Added: May 5, 2009

The wait is over folks, Microsoft has published the download page for the Windows 7 RC. As we noted earlier, the download was scheduled to launch tomorrow and was to be available worldwide. Coming straight from the download page, here are Microsoft's notes for the release candidate:

You don't need to rush to get the RC. The RC will be available at least through July 2009 and we're not limiting the number of product keys, so you have plenty of time.

Watch the calendar. The RC will expire on June 1, 2010. Starting on March 1, 2010, your PC will begin shutting down every two hours. Windows will notify you two weeks before the bi-hourly shutdowns start. To avoid interruption, you'll need to install a non-expired version of Windows before March 1, 2010. You'll also need to install the programs and data that you want to use. (Learn more about installing Windows.)

Protect your PC and data. Be sure to back up your data and please don't test the RC on your primary home or business PC.

Tech details/updates: Before installing the RC, please read the Release Notes and Things to Know for important information about the release.

Keep up with the news. You can keep up with general technical information and news by following the team blog. And, you can get non-technical news, tips, and offers by subscribing to the monthly Exploring Windows newsletter.

Keep your PC updated: Be sure to turn on automatic updates in Windows Update in case we publish updates for the RC.

Installation: You can install the Windows 7 RC on a PC running Windows Vista without backing up the PC—but we encourage you to make a backup for safe keeping. If you're running Windows XP or the Windows 7 Beta, you'll need to backup your data, then do a clean installation of the RC, then reinstall your applications and restore your data. If you need to do a backup, please see How to back up your PC for more details and a suggestion for how to backup a PC running Windows 7 Beta or Windows Vista.

Date Added: May 3, 2009

When Microsoft released the official beta for Windows 7 a while back, it also published a set of system requirements. These were a general overview, and it seems that they have been updated to match the Windows 7 RC recently made available.

Here's the list of initial system requirements Microsoft made available:

* 1GHz processor (32- or 64-bit)

* 1GB of RAM

* 16 GB of available disk space

* Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128MB of memory (for the Aero interface)

And here, you will find the updated and final list of requirements:

* 1 GHz processor (32- or 64-bit)

* 1 GB of RAM (32-bit); 2 GB of RAM (64-bit)

* 16 GB of available disk space (32-bit); 20 GB of avaiable disk space (64-bit)

* DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver

According to ZDNet, however, "If you are planning to run Windows XP Mode along with Windows 7, Microsoft is recommending a PC with a minimum of 2GB of memory and 15 GB of additional disk space." Microsoft stated, "In addition, Windows Virtual PC requires a PC with Intel-VT or AMD-V enabled in the CPU, as it takes advantage of the latest advancements in hardware virtualization."

Date Added: April 23, 2009

Redmond still haven't called that plumber, the official RC build has leaked online at the usual places.

We revealed yesterday that the Windows 7 RC build was 7100 and according to many Neowin members the x86 version has leaked just a short time ago.

We expect the RC will be available to the public shortly and Redmond could still hit the rumored May 5th date. There is speculation the software giant will hold off until May 15th, the last day of Tech-Ed 2009.

Date Added: April 17, 2009

Somebody please get a plumber over to Redmond, because there's a constant leak happening all over the place. What's on the menu this time? Windows 7, as per usual, this time in build 7106 flavor, both x86 and x64 variations.

Date Added: April 13, 2009

CCleaner v2.18.878 Added support for Internet Explorer 8. Improved Wipe Free Space routines. Improved internal communication between threads. Escape key no longer closes CCleaner. Added scrolling to Options screen. Added support for multiple DetectFile options in INI files. Fixed bug when clicking links to navigate to URL. Fixed Win98 progress bar problem. Fixed repaint problem.