Microsoft announced the release to manufacturing (RTM) of Windows Vista. In software development, release to manufacturing (RTM) is the major milestone where Microsoft declared the product is finished.

Volume license business customers will get their copies by the end of this month, while the consumers will get their copies on January 30, 2007. Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 will be available through MSDN subscriber downloads within 7 days.

The new operating system won’t be available to buyers who buy new computers this holiday season. However, you might be able to receive an Express Upgrade to Windows Vista when you buy a qualifying Windows Vista capable PC from participating PC manufacturers.