MSDN and TechNet subscribers can have the first taste of the new release but according to Ars Technica the link still not up. May 5th still falls out of assurance for the release, but if that date will be live, you can enjoy an earlier RC release.
The final version is still scheduled for late 2009 or even early next year, but for sure by then we will have the taste of its release candidate and take our own test on it.
Here’s what the Microsoft’s Partner Program says:
“As the next-generation operating system from Microsoft, Windows 7 opens new development, sales, and services opportunities for your business. With Windows 7, you can offer your customers a robust foundation for high-quality experiences across applications, services, PCs, and devices.
We are pleased to announce that Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC) is available. Windows 7 RC is the prerelease version of Windows 7. Since this is not the final release, your PC will gather and send information to Microsoft engineers to help them check the fixes and changes made based on testing of Windows 7 Beta. Test-drive Windows 7 RC today to see for yourself—and to show your colleagues and customers—how Windows 7 delivers improved management, security, reliability, and performance.
Download Windows 7 RC Partners: If you have a subscription to MSDN or TechNet, you can download Windows 7 RC now. Otherwise, you can download Windows 7 RC starting May 5, 2009.”