Guardian article

Microsoft's latest Windows 7 operating system beats Harry Potter to become biggest-grossing pre-order in Amazon's history

Windows 7 has become the biggest-grossing pre-order in Amazon's history – worth even more than the most recent JK Rowling book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

"The launch of Windows 7 has superseded everyone's expectations," the managing director of Amazon.co.uk, Brian McBride, said. "Demand is still going strong."

Millions of computer users will be getting their first taste of Microsoft's latest operating system tomorrow, when Windows 7 goes on sale worldwide.

The American software company is pinning high hopes on the launch, which aims to be a hit with PC owners and erase the problems suffered by its predecessor, Windows Vista, when it hit the market in 2007.

Vista came in for heavy criticism when it was plagued with problems soon after its launch, but signs are encouraging for Windows 7 so far.

Reviews have been largely positive, and high street retailers say they anticipate strong sales of the software.

PC World is opening its shop in London's Tottenham Court Road at midnight for the launch, offering customers the chance to get their hands on the upgrade and receive advice on how to make the most of the software's new features.

The makeover promises a string of upgrades and improvements for Windows users, including a more streamlined interface, better performance, and reduced power requirements, which means laptops with better battery life.

t also incorporates new features that work with touchscreen displays – a move the company hopes will spur PC makers to develop new computers and all-in-one systems that take advantage of the growing interest in multitouch interfaces inspired by mobile phones.

The success of Windows 7 is being seen as crucial for Microsoft, which is pumping millions of dollars into an advertising campaign and other initiatives aimed at boosting sales and awareness.

Among them is a sponsored half-hour TV show written by Seth Macfarlane, the creator of American television series Family Guy, which the company hopes will broaden its appeal with younger consumers when it is broadcast in the US in November.

Microsoft even plans to open its own chain of branded shops to help push sales of Windows 7 and other products – starting with two in the US - mirroring the move that has helped propel rival Apple to stellar success in recent years.

Microsoft's Bill Veghte told the Guardian earlier this year that it was vital the company "put the magic back" into Windows, which runs 93% of the world's computers.

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Some torrent ( pirates- lol) users say they really like this.
Apparently Vista users are beating down the door.

I'm keeping XP

Thanks Nancy. I'm toying with wiping the desktop computer and reloading it.

Maybe I'll hold out and see how 7 works out... although I hate the thought of sinking that much money into an older desktop. We'll see.

I have had Windows 7 for a few weeks and I LOVE it..

I have stinkin' Vista and dislike it immensely. You are correct, Nancy, the Vista owners will be beating down the doors. I love XP and wish I had it.