Windows 7 Thai release announced

       Microsoft (Thailand) will launch the Thai version of Windows 7 on October 24,with the operating system pre-installed on 40 computer brands at 10 major IT chain stores.
       Managing Director Patama Chantaruck said the company expects the formal launch of Windows 7 in Thailand is slightly behind the US launch die to development of Thai language support.
       The 40 brands offering the preinstalled software will be both local and international models.
       The 10 stores will also offer Windows 7 as separate software.
       Staff at these outlets are already trained in compatibility testing, system upgrades and other Windows 7 concerns.
       The company expects Windows 7 will be heavily subscribed-to even in the economic downturn because the new OS can run on netbooks, which are enjoying popularity.
       Another key feature is security, such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, which gives system administrators control over how removable storage devices can be used and the strength of protection required.
       These two features are especially attractive to banks, especially as Thailand's major banks are expected to migrate to Windows 7 within three months of the launch.
       Microsoft has launched www.windows7thailand.com to demonstrate to users how to use the new OS. The site also connects with Facebook and Twitter,harnessing the potential of digital marketing through social networks.
       The previous Windows release, Vista,currently commands around 30 percent of the Windows customer base, with its predecessor XP still much-preferred, with a 70 percent share.
       The company has increased its marketing budget by 10 percent for the new fiscal year, which started last month, to support its major new product launches,and is targeting a revenue growth of 10 percent. The last fiscal year ended with a 22 percent growth for Microsoft, well above the industry average of 11 percent.
       "Thailand is one of the five countries that has seen the highest growth, apart from Bangladesh, Vietnam, Argentina and Egypt," said Patama.
       "The Thailand office has also subsidised internal expenses worth $600,000 (20.4 million baht) to localise support to channel partner-in-credit extension terms from 60 to 90 days and offer exchange rate protection."