Microsoft's Vista finally hits shelves

Microsoft launches consumer version of Windows five years since the launch of Windows XP

The long awaited consumer release of Microsoft's new operating system, Windows Vista, took place today, along with the launch of Microsoft Office 2007.

The software giant's two flagship products are now available in more than 70 countries, in 19 languages (with 99 languages anticipated by the end of the year), and at more than 39,000 retail stores and online.

“Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 will transform the way people work and play,” said Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft. “Personal computers have become a key part of the daily lives of almost a billion people worldwide. Millions of consumers had a hand in helping us design, test and create the most exciting versions of Windows and Office we’ve ever released. Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 squarely address the needs and aspirations of people around the globe.”

The consumer launch of Windows Vista is also expected to unleash a flood of new next-generation hardware, software and entertainment devices and services. Currently, more than 1.5 million devices and peripherals are on the market that work with Windows Vista, including more than 2,500 that are Certified for Windows Vista. In addition, thousands of PC manufacturers and system builders will deliver the Windows Vista operating system and Microsoft Office 2007 on new PCs.

Steve Ballmer, chief executive of Microsoft, added: “We designed Windows Vista and Office 2007 as springboards for our partners, for realizing the next generation of computing, for a whole new wave of innovation in devices and software that offer better graphics, better connectivity and communications, and a more productive, more enjoyable experience all around. Today's launch will have a dramatic impact on computing long-term."