Windows Vista RC1 has been released to business customers today, and will be released to MSDN and TechNet subscribers next week. If the Vista release schedule is anything like the release schedule for XP, it is possible that a final version of Windows Vista will be available to business consumers in early November. This means that system OEM's can have adequete time to test Vista in their new machines, and possibly have Vista PC's ready before Christmas. It is alot more likely that system OEMS will have Vista PC's ready in early January. In a letter to TechBeta, Jim Allchin, Microsoft co-president of the Platforms and Services Group, thanked TechBeta for their continuing enthusiasm and support. He mentioned most of the improvements of Windows Vista RC1 in his letter, such as GUI enhancements, program compatibility, as well as fit and finish. Allchin advises that RC1 is alot like the Vista Beta 2, and is meant for developers to ensure program compatibility.