Microsoft releases interim Vista build

Microsoft said the new build speeds up the installation and upgrade procedures, so that when you install or upgrade, the process goes more quickly than it did in earlier builds. The release also includes bug fixes and other minor improvements to the "fit and finish" of the operating system, the company said.

The build, 5728, is the first public release of a new Vista version since the debut of Release Candidate 1 (RC1) on Sept. 1, which had a version number of 5600. Microsoft does not view this new build as a milestone or major revision and released it primarily to get feedback on the upgrade and installation experience. The new release also includes overall performance enhancements, improved stability and allows users to turn off the start-up music that normally plays when Windows Vista starts.

The 100,000 CPP participants who received the newest build were chosen at random. In addition, any member or subscriber to TechBeta, TechNet, TAP and MSDN can download it for free.

Microsoft has said Windows Vista will be in the hands of volume license customers by November and available to consumers by the end of January.