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The RTM (Release to Manufacturing) version of Windows 7 is now available for download to MSDN and TechNet subscribers! I know I’ll be spending the weekend refreshing my machines.
Also available as of yesterday is the RC version of Windows XP Mode. XP Mode is a Virtual PC image of XP Service Pack 3 that owners of Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate can download free of charge from Microsoft. With XP Mode, you can continue to run those business-critical applications that aren’t yet Windows 7-ready in a ‘transparent’ XP shell on the Windows 7 desktop, thus providing the best of both worlds for your end-user: exposure to the great new features of Windows 7 and uninterrupted availability of legacy applications.
If you’re not an MSDN or TechNet subscriber, Windows 7 is set to ship on new PCs and be available in stores on October 22nd. You can pre-order copies on-line from vendors such as the Microsoft Store. If you’re in ‘back-to-school’ buying mode now though, you don’t have to wait; if you purchase a PC now from selected OEMs you can upgrade to Windows 7 for a nominal charge (varies depending on vendor). Check out the Windows 7 Upgrade Offer for more details.