Microsoft Changes Longhorn's Name to Vista

Posted on July 26, 2005

Microsoft has announced that the next generation of its Windows operation system will be called Vista. Longhorn had been then code-name for the software until this recent announcement. ZDNet reports that a beta test of the operating system will be available as early as August 3rd.

The company also said Friday that the first beta, or test release, of Vista is slated for release by Aug. 3. That release will be targeted at developers and IT professionals, said Brad Goldberg, general manager of Windows product development.
A second, broader test release aimed at consumers will likely debut ahead of Vista's final release in the second half of next year, the company said.
Microsoft is also planning to begin testing a server version of the operating system by Aug. 3, with final shipment slated for 2007. The company said that version will not bear the Vista name. Instead, its name will "follow existing naming convention" for Windows Server. The current version is called Windows Server 2003.

Microsoft already faces problems with the new software. Techworld.com reports that another software company already claims the trademark to Vista:

John Wall, CEO of Vista Inc., said the company was "considering all of its options" for a potential case against Microsoft. Wall said the naming of Windows may violate a trademark his company has and potentially create confusion over the software and services Vista provides.

Vista is a better sounding tech name. Microsoft may have to buy that trademark.