Windows 7 Announcing: Release to Manufacturing

Got this little tidbit in my inbox today.

It's almost here! We're very happy to tell you that we've hit the last big milestone on the way to Windows 7: Release to Manufacturing. We're packaging copies and manufacturers are putting it on new PCs. On October 22, you'll be able to get the final shipping product. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done; you helped make this an operating system we're all going to enjoy.

Don't miss the good stuff. With the final release rapidly approaching, make sure you learn about special offers and other news including details about launch events in your area. A great way to keep up with what's going on is to sign up for one of our free newsletters. Not only will you get the scoop on the Windows 7 launch, you'll get useful news throughout the year.

Meanwhile, RC's downloads are still available. You can get the release candidate download until August 20, 2009. After that, you won't be able to get the download, but if you have the software, you can still install the RC and get a key if you need one. (Keys will be available till March 2010. To get a key, just go to the Downloads page and follow the instructions.) 

Good news for those of you looking forward to Windows 7   However there seems to be a small "hitch". Notice how the October 22 date has no year associated with it??  We can only assume that the RTM only applies to OEM PCs meaning that we still have to wait until sometime next year for a full retail version of Windows 7, unless you're in the market for a new computer and won't be building it yourself.