IE 7.0 has tabbed browsing just like Firefox. That was one of the things that emerged as pre-release editions of Windows Vista Beta 1 began circulating this week in advance of the August 3 release date announced last week by Microsoft.

IE7, which ships with Windows Vista, will also offer RSS integration. Microsoft has also released assorted specimen screenshots to show what Windows Vista - previously known by the codename "Longhorn" - looks like in terms of look n' feel.

The start menu for example (screenshot at foot of page) looks not especially different from Windowx XP.

Microsoft calls the Beta 1 release "an important milestone on Microsoft’s path to releasing the final version of Windows Vista."


Beta 1 of Windows Vista, which is targeted at developers and IT professionals, was announced last week with just three terse sentences:

Introducing Windows Vista™

It enables a new level of confidence in your PC and in your ability to get the most out of it.

It introduces clear ways to organize and use information the way you want to use it.

It seamlessly connects you to information, people, and devices that help you get the most out of life.

Screenshot of the Start screen in Windows Vista