It's not quite a release candidate yet, but Windows 7 beta build 7048, which leaked onto the Internet last week, provides a lot more customization options as well as numerous feature and UI tweaks. Here are some of the high points from WinSuperSite's coverage:
More sound schemes (13 in all)
New picture backgrounds (including some from Corbis Images)
New icons for accessories such as Paint, DVD Maker, and WordPad
Redesigned Start orb
The "Send Feedback" link is gone
Want to see folders, not libraries? Click your user name
Alt-Tab cool switch now incorporates Aero Peek to temporarily hide windows
You can now uninstall IE 8 and many other components to create a "bare-bones" Windows 7 install
Digging deeper, ZDNet's Ed Bott (with whom I worked on his Windows Me book back in the day) also discovered:
Better ways to change icon displays in Control Panel
Easier to read left pane
More information on pen and touch support on specific systems
Integration with Windows LiveID
Windows XP-style keyboard shortcuts to Windows Explorer
Usability tweaks for Libraries, Homegroups, and Fonts features
Easier to access ClearType LCD panel tuning
Improved ribbons for WordPad and Paint
Native support for Word 2007 .docx format in WordPad
Windows Media Player 12 now streams to Internet and adds other improvements
Better terminology for backup and advanced recovery options
AppData and Downloads folders now included in standard backup
Should you track down a copy of Build 7048 and give it a try before the official RC hits (probably in April)?
Before you decide, be sure to view the
WinSuperSite Build 7048 comment thread. Short take: you might be asking for trouble, especially if you don't do a clean install.
Note: The above link is active and opens a New Browser
