The good folks at Tom's Hardware have taken the time--500 hours, to be exact--to give the new beta version of Windows Vista a thorough run-through. If you are starting to think about how to incorporate this next version of Windows into your operation, I highly recommend this review.
A key takeaway comes early in the article:
One major development is clear right from the outset: a complete blurring of the boundaries between online services and normal software. Microsoft wants, above all, to take those few experienced users by the hand and simplify their interaction with this new operating system. Colored interface buttons, transparent window effects and a modern design show strong influences from both the Mac OS and Linux. Nevertheless, Microsoft's credo appears to be along the lines of "evolution, not revolution" - don't expect a milestone like the transition from Windows 3.11 to Windows 95 here.
--RSN