Microsoft Windows Vista Beta 1 released

Microsoft has announced the release of a Beta version of its next next-generation Windows client operating system, Windows Vista, formerly code-named “Longhorn.”

According to previous announcements the Beta 1 is targeted at developers and IT professionals and will be available on Microsoft's Connection beta site.

The software will be distributed to users who received invitations to this Beta 1 stage. The download is currently available to MSDN subscribers, who are able to download the software and request registration keys from the MSDN site.

MSDN users will also see a new Microsoft Windows Vista Developer Center microsite.