Microsoft says Windows 7 expected around 2011

Even though Windows Vista is taking a severe beating at the hands of consumers and critics alike, Microsoft still has faith in its latest operating system and doesn’t believe there’s any need to abandon it just yet. But just in case you were hoping for it to hit store shelves next year, the company doesn’t want you to hold your breath.

As speculation continued to grow over the expected release date of Windows 7, Microsoft felt it necessary to quell the suspicion and put the idea of its next operating system hitting store shelves next year to rest. Speaking to reporters in an e-mail message, a Microsoft spokesperson said the company is “currently in the planning stages for Windows 7 and expects it will take approximately three years to develop. The specific release date will be determined once the company meets its quality bar for release.”

The spokesperson also noted that it wasn’t ramping up production to rush Windows 7 out the door and is “confident” in the future viability of Vista. Of course, whether or not consumers agree is another story altogether. Either way, don’t look for Windows 7 anytime soon.

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