Speaking today at the Microsoft Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) 2006, Microsoft Corp. Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates announced the immediate availability of beta 2 versions of Windows Vista�, the 2007 Microsoft� Office system and the next version of Windows Server�, code-named Windows Server �Longhorn.� It is the first time that Microsoft has simultaneously released the test versions of all three of the company�s flagship products.

Gates also shared new details on the Windows Server virtualization front. Microsoft�s hypervisor-based solution is on track to be available with the upcoming Windows Server �Longhorn� operating system. Microsoft anticipates having a beta release of Windows Server virtualization by the end of 2006 and plans to release to manufacturing (RTM) within 180 days of Windows Server �Longhorn� RTM.

Gates also announced plans for Microsoft to release a beta version of a Windows Live software development kit (SDK) this summer, to enable partners to develop devices � ranging from webcams to headsets � that work with live services either through the PC or directly through the Windows Live network. More information about hardware development for Windows Live services can be found at http://dev.live.com/hardware.

Today Microsoft is also announcing the beta 2 version of WinFX� and the corresponding Go-Live license, both available to developers on MSDN. WinFX is a core part of the Windows Vista operating system that enables developers to rapidly build modern applications that feature visually stunning user experiences, seamless and secure communication, and resilience to change.