Rajiv Popli:

We want to reach out to users and get their feedbacks. Windows 7 is a result of consumer feedback in the past. It has features that would make life simpler for the user. We are working together with the ecosystem to be ready for great consumer experience at launch. A number of OEMs and channel partners are preparing their offerings to be ready for Windows 7 and leveraging Windows 7's enhancements for consumer benefit.

We expect this momentum to accelerate as we get closer to the launch. Windows 7 will be available for installation on all PCs-branded or assembled. Having pre-installed OS provides best user experience to consumers, and both OEM and channel partners will have the option to pre-install Windows 7 on their systems. The feedback we have received till now from OEMs and consumers has been very encouraging. There has been nothing negative to hold us back from the launch, which is slated for October this year.

CIOL: What are some of the new features to look out for?

RP: Windows 7 comes with a whole new set of cool features such as HomeGroup, Device Stage, Aero Shake, Snap, Peek, Jump Lists, and our completely redesigned Windows Taskbar, that will make PCs faster, smarter, and easier to use. The new OS also helps improve battery life and it has been found to increase battery life by 10-12 percent in many instances. One of the new features is Windows Touch which heralds a new way in which consumer can interact with the PC and simplifying that process even further.

Besides, touch functionality can herald new ways in which industries like BFSI, hospitality, education and health, to name a few, can build applications for users. Direct access is another feature that securely provides access to corporate resources remotely. This would also help better management of IT infrastructure, even for devices that are remotely connected. The key thing we are looking at through all these features is simplifying user's PC experience, helping them to do what they want to do faster and smarter.

CIOL: With a new OS in tow, would Microsoft be looking at phasing out any of the older versions?

RP: Microsoft has Support Lifecycle policy for its products. This establishes clear and predictable guidelines for product support time lines. As per the policy, Windows Vista will continue with mainstream support until April 2012 and current Vista users will benefit from the same.

Current buyers of PC with Windows Vista Premium, Vista Business and Vista Ultimate have the option to get Windows 7 compatible product post launch. They should check the same with channel members at the time of their PC purchase.

CIOL: What steps are you taking to engage your channel partners?

RP: We are working with the channel on readiness for them to be able to offer consumers PC with Windows 7 at the time of launch/General Availability. We will work with them to build on the enthusiasm and broad positive feedback on Windows 7. Coming out with the Upgrade Option Program was one such initiative where consumers who buy a PC with Windows Vista Home-Premium, Business or Ultimate, from a participating channel partner can receive the upgrade to Windows 7, post launch at no additional cost to Microsoft.

Each participating OEM, channel partner may have its own terms for fulfillment and the same should be confirmed by the purchasers from channel partner or OEM. Participating OEM have also put up the terms of fulfillment on their sites. During May-June this year, we also did a 16-city tour to give the channel a preview of Windows 7.

Our intent is to engage channel partners, which includes the system integrators, resellers, large OEMs and their channel, across the country, in the launch process. Though we will not be looking at changing the channel model we currently have, we will be looking at having stronger channel engagements.