Windows users are closer to getting their hands on the Release to Manufacturing version of the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system. Microsoft will begin making Windows 7 RTM available as early as Aug. 6 for some users and as late as Aug. 23 for others after its scheduled release at the end of July.
The Redmond, Wash.-based software giant released some details about who will get the RTM version and when.
“Many of you have said you want to know exactly when you will be able to get your hands on RTM,” wrote Microsoft’s Brandon Leblanc on The Windows Blog. “When you can get RTM depends on who you are.”
Professionals Get First Dibs
Shortly after RTM is released, IT professionals will be able to grab Windows 7 from the Springboard Series site, which focuses on IT workers.
Independent software and hardware vendor partners, developers with Microsoft Developers Network subscriptions, and IT professionals with TechNet subscriptions will get first dibs on Windows RTM on Aug. 6. However, Leblanc cautions partners who haven’t started testing Windows 7 to begin now.
Twenty-four hours later, Volume License customers with a Software Assurance license will be able to download Windows 7 in English, and other languages a few weeks later. Volume License customers without a SA license will have to wait until Sept. 1 to buy a version.
Microsoft Partner Program Gold members will have to wait until Aug. 16 to download Windows 7 RTM in English. Remaining languages will not be available until Oct. 1.
Even farther out on the calendar are Microsoft Action Pack subscribers, who can’t tap into the English version of the RTM until Aug. 23.
There have been rumors that Microsoft will offer a family pack for Windows 7.
“We have heard a lot of feedback from beta testers and enthusiasts…