Microsoft prepares customers for Windows Vista

Microsoft Corporation announced the launch of the Windows
Vista 'Get Ready' website, the worldwide availability of Windows Vista
Capable PCs, Premium Ready PCs and Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor beta.

"Customers have many options and choices to make when it
comes to buying a PC today. A wide range of form factors, price points and new
technologies figure into their decisions," said Mike Sievert, Corporate VP,
Windows Product Management and Marketing, Microsoft. "With that in mind,
Microsoft and OEMs are making it easier to prepare for the arrival of Windows
Vista. Customers now have the information they need to get a great Windows
XP-based PC today that will deliver rich Windows Vista experiences
tomorrow."

To help customers make informed decisions when buying new
PCs, Microsoft announced the availability of Windows Vista Capable PCs and the
forthcoming availability of Windows Vista Premium Ready PCs. Through the Windows
Vista Capable program, Windows XP-based PCs that are powerful enough to run
Windows Vista are now available from leading PC manufacturers worldwide,
including Acer, Dell, Fujitsu, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, NEC Corporation, Sony,
Toshiba and more.

Microsoft also is working with PC manufactures to introduce Windows Vista
Premium Ready PCs. Windows Vista Capable PCs can earn the Premium Ready
designation by meeting or exceeding the requirements outlined below. A Premium
Ready designation ensures that the PC will deliver even better Windows Vista
experiences.

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