Tamero IT Consulting & Services

Microsoft is planning six versions of the next generation of its Windows operating system.

There will be three versions called Vista, which will be for home users, while two will be for businesses and one will be for emerging markets.

One of the home versions of Vista will include features that let users store and play back TV shows this is said to be next Windows Media Center Edition software.

Vista is expected to be launched by the end of 2006. Vista is a major re-working of Windows from 32bit to 64bit processing and that makes changes, among other things, to the way the operating system looks and how it handles networking and sound.

The six versions were designed to match the demands different users have for its software. No details have been given about the pricing of the separate versions.

Vista Business - Is a basic version for companies of all sizes and includes tools that will help organisations manage their PCs.

Vista Enterprise - Will have all of the features in the basic version and add to them improved encryption including a BitLocker system that will stop confidential data being viewed if a computer is lost or stolen.

Vista Home Basic - Is intended for those who only want to use their PC to browse the net, use e-mail and create and edit basic documents. It will also include desktop search and security tools.

Vista Home Premium - Includes everything in the Basic version and adds the new graphical interface called Aero. It can also be connected to an Xbox 360 gaming console.

Vista Ultimate - has all the features of the business and home editions in one package .

Vista Starter - is a streamlined version intended for low powered PCs found in many developing nations.

Microsoft said it will also have improved media handling abilities so it can help users organise and enjoy their digital images, music and movie collections. Also included will be tools to help people author and burn DVDs.