Windows 7 RC
 

Windows 7 RC (release candidate) came out yesterday. I was wondering what everyone thought about it (or previous beta versions of windows 7)? I'm currently using build 7000 and I like it, but I only use it for gaming. I still like OSx86 better though. Even though there are some problems in OSx86. I still like how much better OSx86 is set up and how much more organized it is. I find it a little weird that Microsoft hasn't thought of an equivalent to exposé since that is the main feature I like in OSX along with stacks.

Tell me what you think? Is it better than OSX/OSx86, Linux, and previous versions of windows?


Here is some information on Windows 7 and its requirements.


Download instructions

Welcome to Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC) testing. We’re on our way to Windows 7, and the RC is a great opportunity for IT professionals like you to take Windows 7 and begin testing it in your real environment. You get to see what’s coming, and we get to see if our changes and fixes from the Beta testing are working correctly. We want to encourage you to install and actively test the RC code. This will help us ensure Windows 7 is the best possible release, and help you get ready for Windows 7 deployment.


Here’s what you need to know:

This is pre-release software, so please read the following to get an idea of the risks and key things you need to know before you try the RC.

You don’t need to rush to get Windows 7 RC. The RC release will be available at least through June 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 Windows 7 RC on your primary home or business PC.
Technical 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 Springboard Series blog or Windows team blog. Want technical guidance, tips, and tools? Visit the Springboard Series on TechNet.
Keep your PC updated: Be sure turn on automatic updates in Windows Update in case we publish updates for the RC.
Microsoft Partners: Learn more about Windows 7 on the Microsoft Partner Portal.

Here’s what you need to have:

Internet access (to download Windows 7 RC and get updates)
A PC with these minimum recommended specifications:
- 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor or higher
- 1 GB of system memory or more
- 16 GB of available disk space
- Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB memory (to enable the Aero theme)
- DVD-R/W Drive
Please note these specifications could change. And, some product features of Windows 7, such as the ability to watch and record live TV or navigation through the use of "touch," may require advanced or additional hardware.

I admire what M$ is doing by releasing the beta and the RC to the public and getting people's feedback. Good sense of humour too, using Apple's successful ad term "I am a PC" in their W7 videos.

Personally I have absolutely no interest in using Windows 7 (or any other flavour of Windows for that matter). The Mac OS has always served my needs and allowed me to achieve all of my computing goals professionally since 1989. However, that does not mean that I am opposed to Windows itself - I just don't like or have any use for it in my life. I am curious, however, to see how this version will be received by the general public after the debacle that was Vista. From what I've seen so far this new version appears to be more or less the same as Vista, albeit a bit more spit and polish, though last I heard it's still not possible to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear :p

I used it for some time now - got my version from TechNet. And well...it should be called Windows Vista SP2. I cant say anything bad about it - the system works great, it`s reliable, fast, doesnt have any problems with compatibility etc. BUT it`s still the same windows...few changes, few interface news, it is all ok - but i wouldnt pay for that if i have bought Vista ( which i actually did... ). My opinion - Windows 7 is very good, but it`s still the same windows with just few new tweaks - totally not worth paying another 100$ or so, but it`s good opportunity for XP userw to change at last.

BTW. Actually i think MS ad term "I am a PC" is a bit lame...they just took Apple`s idea and shown the same from their side...well, that`s creativity.

i don't use, whatever i need i get it with MacOSX and in extremely rare cases, Archlinux so there's no way i tried that, but I know some friend tested Windwos & beta and they think is a huge improve over Vista, cause is faster.

Personally I use windows 7 (build 7000) only for playing games.
Actually Dragon Quest VIII with the latest flavour of pcsx2 and damn, it's much more beautiful on my computer than on my old ps2 ! (It makes me think that I have to test this emulator under Mac OS X :))

Same for me, but now i'm playing to play Call of Duty and Need for Speed on MacOSX.

I'm using windows 7 for emulation as well. Did anyone get the problem with shutting down taking like a day. I had that problem but somehow it resolved itself. My dad had the problem as well.