Despite efforts by Microsoft to fix the problems, the product has struggled to overcome its poor reputation, a situation exploited by arch rival Apple in a series of adverts relentlessly bashing Vista. The new system was built on the same "kernel" as Vista, which had now been fixed and improved, he said, so no such dramatic reworking on the ecosystem would be required. For the same reasons, it was unlikely to bring a repeat of the compatibility problems.
Demonstrating several of the features to ripples of applause, Julia Larson-Green, vice president of the Windows experience, said Windows 7 made many common tasks "super easy" while giving computer users more control so it "works in the way you want it to".
Some of the features previewed include:
- A streamlined taskbar that users can customise easily which shows all the windows open from a single application by hovering over the programme's icon. Thumbnails are larger and finding and switching between applications and files is easier - "jump lists" provide updated lists of recent documents, files or websites without having to open Microsoft Word or an internet browse.
- More control over "annoying" security alerts and pop-up windows.
- Automatic syncing of computers and other internet devices into home networks so content can be shared and accessed by all devices on the network.
- Easier searching and organising of files with Windows "libraries", which provides automatic and streamlined views of similar files contained on various locations such as hard drives or other PCs on the same network.
- A touchscreen interface enabling users to control their computers using fingertips and hand gestures rather than a mouse similar to those used on Apple's iPhone.
Microsoft also previewed new "lightweight" versions of its Office software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote that will run in a web browser so documents or files can be accessed from any computer, regardless of whether it has the software on it. The programmes run "in the cloud" on Microsoft's new Windows Azure system unveiled on Monday. PC users will be able to start experimenting with a test version of Windows 7 next year with the system set to go on sale in early 2010.
