Windows 7 launch set for October

Microsoft will release Windows 7, the latest version of its operating system, on 22 October.

The pre-Halloween date is ahead of expectations and comes in time for the traditional Christmas consumer-spending spree.

Windows 7 will replace Windows Vista, which was released at the beginning of 2007.

Last month the software giant made available for public download, inviting feedback from testers.

You can download Windows 7 RC1 from the Microsoft website.

Microsoft had previously said Windows 7 would launch "no later than January 2010", but Acer spoiled the party by announcing it expected a launch on 23 October.

"We feel confident that we will deliver Windows 7 with our partners on 22 October," said Bill Veghte, senior vice president for Microsoft's Windows business.

Windows 7 will be available on new PCs from 22 October. Microsoft will also sell boxed versions that people can install on existing PCs.

Windows is used on about 90 per cent of the world's computers, according to industry figures.

Microsoft will be hoping to cement its position and fend off criticism with Windows 7. It faces competition in the netbook market as vendors are committing to other operating systems.

Acer today announced that it hopes to have the first Android operated netbook available around the same time as Windows 7 is launched.