Vista set for retail release 30 January 2007

Mark 30 January 2007 in your diary because that's when the average consumer will be able to get their hands on Microsoft's new Windows Vista operating system.

Following months of speculation, Microsoft has revealed that Vista will be on shelves and pre-installed on new computers on the second-to-last day of January.

It was announced last week that Vista will be released to business users with volume license deals on 30 November but the retail customers will have to wait another two months.

The new operating system, which has been five years in the making, was recently signed off by Microsoft with Windows chief Jim Allchin saying the code was "rock solid" and ready for shipping.

Last month Microsoft announced a deal offering cheap upgrades to Vista and Office 2007 for consumers who purchase new Windows Vista-capable PCs now.

Through to 15 March next year, consumers and small businesses buying computers loaded with Windows XP or 2003 Office software will be eligible for the "express upgrade" to Vista and Office 2007.