Need the Bits for Windows Vista? Beta 2 download now available...

One of the most asked questions on the Future of the Desktop tour is when can I download the bits for Windows Vista Beta 2. The best way to stay informed on the 3 major Betas being released in the near future (Office 2007, Vista 2007 and Exchange 2007) is to stop by the Windows Beta Central page. If you check that page right now – it still says “coming soon” for the availability of Windows Vista 2007.

I decided to do some sleuthing and clicking around and came across the World Wide page for Beta Central.  If you select the drop-down box for United States to get their version of the page, you will notice that the Vista Beta 2 links for download are now active. It takes you to the main Windows Vista “Get Ready” page – which has a number of resources available to IT Pros.  One of the links is for “Get Windows Vista Beta 2” which takes you to the Get Ready Preview page. 

This is your final destination. Rather round about way to get a copy of Windows Vista, but it works.  I’ve asked our web team to update the Canadian Windows Beta Central page with updated links – should be done any time now.

In the meantime – you can register and download right now – by going to the Get Ready Preview page. You can select Canada from the drop down list to correctly identify where you are located.  Be aware that you can either Order a copy to be shipped to you or you can download the 3.5 GB 32 bit version or 4.4 GB 64 bit version for either AMD or Intel based machines.

How much does it cost to have it shipped to you directly?  For Canada it’s $7… Pretty good value since you will get both 32 and 64 bit versions AS WELL AS Beta 2 and Release Candidate 1 (when it becomes available) for the same single low price.  Only hitch is that you have to practice Delayed Gratification, since it arrives in the mail.