Windows 7 SP1 beta download expected in July

Experts from Microsoft reported that at present employees of the company are preparing the code of the first comprehensive update for Windows 7 for the first beta testing, which will  be released in July this year.

In a month, a limited number of users of developer networks  such as TechNet and MSDN subscribers will be able to test the first cumulative updates pack, Service Pack 1 for Windows 7. Beta version does not bring into the system any special changes or additions - it will only increase the stability and performance of some components of Windows. Also, it will eliminate the need for hardware virtualization support for the use of the XP Mode, which should make life easier not only to ordinary users, but corporate customers who do not always "upgrade" their Computers.

It is noticed that work on the first service-pack is somewhat faster than was the case with Windows Vista, but the specific timing of completion of works and issuing of the code for Windows 7 SP1 has not been reported yet. It can only be roughly assumed that once the first attempt to test SP1 will occur in July, and it is 2 months earlier than in the case of Vista. There will be a public beta, released in September, and final assembly in late October - early November.

It is reported that the size of the first comprehensive update will be considerably less than that for Windows Vista (700 MB) and it will be distributed as usual, via Windows Update and the new PCs in retail stores.

Watch this thread for the Windows 7 SP1 beta download link.