A Windows 7 version tailor-made for Netbooks?

By: Pallab Jyotee Hazarika

Microsoft is seeking Netbook users to test Windows 7.

Will Netbooks get their share of Windows 7?

 Microsoft is rumored to be sending e-mail invitation to Beta testers earlier this month in which it is seeking testers to run a test version of Windows 7 on machines that have configurations closer to Netbooks (except for the fact they include DVD drives). It’s not clear whether Microsoft’s Windows team is interested in testing a new netbook-specific SKU of Windows 7 or perhaps something more like Windows 7 Lite Edition — a low-end version of Windows tailored for the low-cost Netbooks.

The request is confined to the testers of Chile, Egypt, Lebanon, Brazil, Jordan and India. Microsoft is looking for testers with machines that adhere to the following spec list:                           

·         1 GHz processor

·         1 GB of system memory

·         16 GB of available disk space

·         Support for DX9 graphics

·         DVD-R/W Drive

·         Internet access

The note sent to the Beta testers, including me, says

“You are invited to join a beta trial for a specialized version of Windows 7. Your geographic location may make you a good candidate for this providing feedback on this specialized version of Windows 7. You will still have access to the Windows 7 Ultimate SKU, in addition you will be able to test this additional SKU.”

Later according to Mary Jo Foley at ZDNet Microsoft is now saying that this SKU is not specific to netbooks. Does that mean there will be a Windows 7 Lite or Starter edition? Wait and watch.