Windows 7 (the working title) is getting closer, and its happened a lot quicker than we were expecting.  A “ Pre beta” is a very early version of the product.  Microsoft started releasing copies of this early test version last month.   The real message here is that XP’s days are numbered.  When Windows 7 is released, it is likely that XP will drop even further off the list of available options.    It’s already difficult to purchase XP, and this news means that software suppliers are less likely to make XP versions of their programs. 

It’s not all bad news.  Despite all the bad press, everyone that uses Vista for a few days loves it and does not want to go back.  Yes, some older applications may not work and so you may have to upgrade.  I use Vista at home and at work and I love it.  Like a lot of people I’m not really sure why, but I won’t be going back to XP.