New software versions are hitting Download.com all the time, but there are definitely a few products coming out later this year worth getting excited about. We've limited our list to include only big releases from a few of the more popular software categories. Keep in mind that there will be plenty of new releases beyond what is listed here, so be sure to keep your eye on Download.com for the latest software news and updates.
Microsoft Windows 7 (Professional)
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Date: October 22, 2009
Price: $119 for Home Premium to $219.99 for Ultimate.
The outlook: It's no secret that Windows 7 is on its way to desktops and, with its extended beta period, just about everyone says it will be the next great operating system from Microsoft. We've had some time to review various prerelease versions of Windows 7 and we can definitely say that with Aero Peek, touch-screen capabilities, and much more, there's plenty to be excited about.
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Outstanding
Detailed editors' rating
THE BOTTOM LINE: Windows 7 is more than what Vista should have been, it's where Microsoft needed to go. How much damage Vista did and whether Windows 7 is enough for people to finally abandon Windows XP are questions that nobody has the answers to right now.
