Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Sunday, 08 March 2009 09:45
Opinion and Analysis
Page 1 of 2
Although the 64-bit version of Windows 7 build 7048 has been widely
available on bittorrent sites, the 32-bit version was missing in
action. But no longer, for it too has escaped Microsoft’s clutches and
is available to any pirate that wants it!
Windows 7 will soon reach its release candidate (RC) stage, with the date reportedly set for April 10 – just a few weeks away.
But ever since the official beta 1 7000 build of Windows 7 was officially launched, those interested in Microsoft’s latest, greatest and Vista-destroying operating system have been keen to see how the beta builds have progressed.
The 7048 build is the latest to leak from Microsoft’s ship, and given that it’s meant to be close to what the release candidate will offer, it’s not surprising to see thousands of users around the world downloading it from torrent sites.
It’s also interesting because it theoretically promises better performance than the 7000 build, which for me, has started becoming much flakier of late, requiring rebooting to get back to a stable state.
Although 64-bit is definitely the future, the 32-bit version would be of interest to anyone without a 64-bit processor in their computer(s), including all those with Pentium IV, Pentium M, Core Duo and Atom processors, none of which are 64-bit capable.
Core 2 Duo processors and above can run 64-bit operating systems, and give users access to more than 4GB of RAM, but with Windows 7 able to run on older systems seemingly as smoothly as Windows XP, it’s a very good thing that Microsoft didn’t make Windows 7 a 64-bit only OS.
After all, we’re in an economic crisis, and not everyone wants to race out and buy a new PC, while plenty of those that are find themselves with 32-bit Atom-powered netbooks.
An interesting unknown for Windows 7 is what price Microsoft will ultimately charge end users, especially those who want to upgrade from Windows XP or Vista.
In an article at “
The Standard”, Microsoft’s CFO, Chris Liddell, is quoted as saying: "The challenge for us is clearly to get the average selling price up.”
I have to say, this is a very worrying statement for Microsoft to be making, especially during the time of global depression. Why? Answers are on page 2, as well more info on Windows 7 x86 7048 –
please read on.
