Microsoft has released what it says should be the final test build of Windows Vista, which it is calling RC2. The software giant also notified Office 2007 testers on Oct. 6 that the product is set to be released to manufacturing in a few weeks.
The Vista RC 2 release, Build 5744, is being made available to between 50,000 and 100,000 testers, comprising a select number of Customer Preview Program participants as well as the regular TechBeta, TechNet, TAP and MSDN testers.
RC 2 includes improvements in performance, application compatibility, and fit and finish work, the spokesperson said, adding that the strong feedback received since RC1 has helped it improve the overall quality and performance of the product.
With regard to Office 2007, Microsoft said the Office Preview site will be closed down on Oct. 25, at which time the Office Beta 2 technical refresh will no longer be available for download.
In addition, all the information currently found on the Office Preview site will be migrated to the Office Online Web site, while technical support will transition from the beta support newsgroups staffed by Office employees to the in-market product support provided by Microsoft Customer Service and Support.