Tech Shout!

Microsoft has released the beta version of Virtual PC 2007, the new version of the software giant’s virtual machine software that has the capacity of running under both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows and supports only 32-bit guest OSes. The update takes advantage of new hardware virtualization technology from both Intel and AMD.

Virtual PC is a virtual machine (VM) environment in which virtual guest operating systems can run in a window under physical host operating systems.

According to Vista product manager Nick White, “So now you have an easy way to try out Windows Vista, even if you are reluctant to replace the OS on one your existing PCs; or if you have already taken the plunge you can spin up a legacy operating system in a virtual machine on your Windows Vista machine.”

Microsoft customers who are interested in signing up for the Virtual PC 2007 beta can do so at the Microsoft Connect Web site (URL below). Virtual PC 2007, like its predecessor, will be free when the final version is released early next year. Virtual PC 2007 Beta is available for download from Microsoft’s Connect beta site.