In an apparent bid to avoid the device driver compatibility problems that plagued the launch of Windows Vista, Microsoft has ordered hardware makers to begin testing on the first beta version of Windows 7 as soon as it becomes available. Those who fail to comply with the edict risk not qualifying for the Windows Logo certified compatibility program for Windows 7 or Windows Vista. Also, all submissions must include a complete CPK--a process control method with test logs from Windows 7 onward. Going by Microsoft's customary timelines, the final version of Windows 7 is expected to be out by 2010.

For more about Windows 7:
- check out this InformationWeek article [1]