Microsoft Pats Self on Back, Extends the Availability of the Windows 7 Beta

Surely someone else has noticed the irony (sweet, sweet irony) that the beta version of Windows 7 is far more popular than Vista even though it doesn't have complete functionality. Apparently Microsoft wants to bask in the praise a little bit longer (understandable considering they haven't gotten praise since 1995), and so they have extended the period for downloading Windows 7 Beta.



The beta download was supposed to end Saturday, but the new deadline is February 10. Microsoft tried to make it sound like a gift to the public from the developers' benevolent hearts by saying they are extending the download deadline despite the fact that they already "have more than enough beta testers and feedback coming in to meet our engineering needs." How kind. Microsoft wants to bestow the gift of 7 on more people.
Translation: They are absolutely ecstatic that they are receiving almost universally optimistic reviews on the beta and want to bask in the praise a little longer. Frankly, it's a smart marketing opportunity because all the positive publicity coming out of the beta is getting people's attention. By allowing more people to become acquainted with the beta, Microsoft stands a good chance of winning potential customers over before the final version ever comes out.

We've had both kind and skeptical things to say about Windows 7, check it out:

Windows Marketplace: Microsoft App Store or the First Spam-based OS

Windows 7 May Be Good for Netbooks

Microsoft CES Keynote Coverage