Why a New Windows Vista Build Prior to RC1?

Per my post from late last week, Microsoft has placed build 5536 online for public download. Folks visiting this page over at the Windows Vista website are testing this interim build in anticipation of the upcoming release of RC1.

Let me clarify: only the first 100,000 visitors downloading will receive the build, after which the site will be deactivated. Our goal in offering this build publicly is to help identify and track issues before RC1 is designated for release. Despite being so close to the actual release date of RC1, the download, installation and usage feedback you send us on this build is still extremely important -- otherwise, we'd not be spending resources on this interim build.

Again: this is the same build released last week to Technical Beta and TAP testers.