Microsoft reached a significant milestone today in delivering Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 as Steven Sinofsky, President of the Windows Division, signed off on the Release to Manufacturing (RTM).  General Availability (GA) to all customers is October 22, 2009. In preparation for GA:

  • OEM partners can now begin testing and building PCs
  • Software development partners can test their applications
  • IHVs can perform final testing on their new hardware

Read more about when Microsoft partners will have access to the Windows 7 RTM on the Windows Team Blog.

On September 1, Windows 7 will be on the price list and partners can begin to sell Windows 7 via Open and Select Volume Licensing Programs. Volume Licensing (VL) customers with an existing Software Assurance (SA) license will be able to download Windows 7 RTM in English starting August 7, via the Volume License Service Center (VLSC).  Volume License customers without a SA license will be able to purchase Windows 7 through Volume Licensing starting September 1.

Visit the Microsoft Partner Network portal for information about how to prepare for Windows 7 General Availability on October 22.