Microsoft Revs Up for Vista Launch

With Windows Vista set to become available nationwide at 12am this evening and already on store shelves across Asia, Microsoft is preparing a slew of events to kick off its next-generation operating system, including a celebration in New York City today with both Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer.

After an industry luncheon hosted by Steve Ballmer concludes, Microsoft will open the doors at 1515 Broadway in Times Square to a crowd of invitees who have come to hear Bill Gates herald the arrival of Windows Vista more than 5 years after Windows XP launched down the street.

The theme of the Vista launch is simple: "Wow!" Microsoft hopes the operating system will surprise and wow users with its snazzy graphics and fancy new features. Computer manufacturers including Dell have already begun selling desktops and laptops running Vista, and Microsoft hopes end-user adoption will be quick.

A new Windows Vista homepage was rolled out over the weekend, which mimics the software's graphical style and details the different versions available, as well as providing downloads and how-to guides.

For those that are hesitant about making the upgrade, CompUSA is even offering a guarantee: "We guarantee you'll enjoy your Windows Vista experience or we'll reinstall your original operating system and refund your purchase," the retail chain says. Steve Ballmer will be on-hand at the Fifth Avenue Best Buy in New York City Tuesday to help with promotion.

In-store promotion isn't the only approach Microsoft is taking to spread the word about Vista. Bill Gates will appear on "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" Monday evening, where he is likely to have interaction with comedian John Hodgman, who plays the PC character in Apple's well-known commercials.

Vista may be garnering the most attention, but Office 2007 is also making its debut to consumers Tuesday. Microsoft says that because Office is primarily a business product, it was the focus on the November business launch, but it will still have a presence at Vista launch events around the world.

BetaNews is in New York City covering the launch, and will bring you news and photos from the event. A webcast of the launch will be streamed live.