While we’re all kind of in the “hurry-up-and-wait” mode right now with regards to Windows 7, Microsoft hasn’t made any concrete announcements about the release of Windows 7. The Beta program just closed to new participants today and will run through Aug. 1, 2009.

As far as how the process moves along, I found this post from a Microsoft engineer to be really helpful in understanding what went into development and what’s coming down the pipe:.

Also, staying tuned to the Windows 7 page is a great way to keep up-to-date on the latest Windows 7 news:.

Hope these help out a bit.

Cheers,
Ron
Windows Outreach Team

I, like you, have also been keeping an eye on the Windows 7 release date. I have a 7 year old PC, and I was hoping to get a brand new laptop, and since Windows 7 is coming out, there is no point in getting vista in my opinion since 7 is way better.

Up to this point, they have not mentioned a date. They have mentioned that they will not release any more betas,and that it will go straight to manufacturing when they release it again (no more betas or tests).

The expiration on the Beta is in August. I would speculate June would be the absolute soonest. However, I am feeling like it will be any time between June-September. I don’t think it will be any later than September for sure.

It really depends on how many bugs and problems they find with the beta, and how soon they can get it ready for release at this point.

What I have been doing is going every day to google, clicking the “news” link, and typing in Windows 7. It is a great way to get the latest reports.

I hope that helps, and hopefully we can get Windows 7! I personally think it would be a waste to get a new laptop with Vista since 7 is on its way.