Microsoft prepares 'Windows 7'

Microsoft is planning to ship its next major version of Windows - known as version "7" - within three years.

Like Vista, Windows 7 will ship in consumer and business versions, and in 32-bit and 64-bit flavours.

The company also confirmed that it is considering a subscription model to complement Windows, but did not provide specifics or a time frame. Windows 7 was previously known by the code name "Vienna".

Next up on Microsoft's agenda is Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista, which is expected before the year's end.

Microsoft is scoping Windows 7 development to a three-year time frame, and then the specific release date will ultimately be determined by meeting the quality bar.