Windows 7: Yes, Just 2 Product Editions

Everyone has been sounding their horns: Microsoft has announced the Windows 7 SKUs. This is important because Microsoft made a big mistake last time around (Vista), when they decided to create numerous product editions.

Windows 7, fortunately, will basically be available in just two flavors:

• Windows 7 Home Premium
  The only desirable choice for the average Windows-user.
  Includes all the multimedia and touch stuff.
• Windows 7 Professional
  Meant for businesses, similar to XP Pro back in the day.

There has been a lot of talk about other editions floating around. And indeed, other versions will also be distributed, but these will be limited to a certain target market.

• Windows 7 Starter
  Extremely basic. For emerging markets.
• Windows 7 Enterprise & Windows 7 Ultimate
  Essentially the same product, but the former will be offered as volume licensing and the latter is directed at the broader consumer crowd.

So there. I thought I’d just put this out there since I’ve been seeing conflicting headlines from several [respectable] sites (which I will not mention for a change).

If you want the whole story, be sure to check out Paul Thurrott’s SuperSite for Windows article on Windows 7 and its product editions.