Putting Vista to the test

Microsoft released the new Vista operating system into testing late Wednesday. Though intended for use by developers and power users, the beta version's features and foibles are being subject to industrywide scrutiny.

Now the testing really begins

blogma The new, broader beta program will give Microsoft and industry watchers the first concrete indication of whether Vista is close to completion.
June 8, 2006

Microsoft releases public download of Vista

After months of limited testing, the software giant makes beta version of Windows publicly available for download.
CNET Downloads: Vista beta
June 7, 2006

Vista gets out of PC sync

Microsoft drops feature in Windows update that would have let people synchronize data among many PCs.
June 7, 2006

Vista users to get Ultimate reward

blog Microsoft says those who buy the ultrahigh-end Ultimate edition will get special perks.
Screenshot: Ultimate extras
June 7, 2006

Microsoft goes comic route with Vista

Comic Demetri Martin has signed with Microsoft and Comedy Central in a pair of interlocking deals that will give him a presence in prime time, online and more.
June 7, 2006

previous coverage

Piecing together Windows Vista

roundup As Microsoft puts the finishing touches on Vista, information is trickling out on how it will be sold, what it will cost, what it will and won't do, and which businesses it could endanger.
June 7, 2006