Longhorn may ship in seven editions

NEW DELHI: As the time of launch of beta versions of Longhorn, Microsoft's next generation operating system is approaching there are talks that the company may release seven different editions of the operating system. Said an online report.

The seven editions include a Starter, Home, Premium/Media, Professional, Small Business, Mobility/Tablet PC, and a new type called the 'ber' edition.

While the first six are typical to Microsoft the 'ber' edition is a new entrant to this breed. According to Paul Thurrott, the 'ber' edition bridges the consumer and business versions and includes all of the features from the Home, Premium, Pro, Small Business, and Tablet PC Editions.

Analysts are not very sure of software giant's decision to come up with so many versions of Longhorn, since many versions would mean further delay in the launch. However, Microsoft may be looking at collecting more client-access fees with different versions and also trying to keep its partners happy, as they will have to pay lesser for specific versions.

Whatever the case may finally turnout to be analysts expect Microsoft to "make a real difference between versions," and not repeat the Windows XP Home and Professional history where the two had very minor differences.

The final decision may come out at the WinHEC (Windows Hardware Engineering Conference) to be held in April, in Seattle.