Microsoft deciding to release early code to trusted partners is always going to be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it allows for valuable feedback and bug identification on software before it gets released to consumers and business users alike, on the other, it’s an opportunity for the less scrupulous among us to share that early code with everyone.
Windows 8 is no exception to this rule. A day after screenshots of the Windows App Store leaked, it seems a complete early build of the operating has now been released.
The version that has appeared for download is an ISO carrying the name 6.1.7850.0.winmain_win8m1.100922-1508_x86fre_client-enterprise_en-us. It’s a 2.45GB download suggesting this is a full OS release, although we suspect much of the code will be Windows 7 with features from 8 being used on top of that base. The screenshots that have appeared backup that suspicion with the system information identifying it as Windows 7 Enterprise.
This is a leaked operating system that is already getting a lot of attention on file-sharing networks, but really isn’t something you want to install to work with. It’s Windows 7+, with Windows 8 not expected until early next year, meaning there’s still a lot of Microsoft to add.
Read more at Beta Archive, via Engadget
Matthew’s Opinion
I doubt Microsoft will be too concerned about this leak as the version is not really Windows 8. It’s Windows 7 in transition and probably has a lot of broken elements. I would also be surprised if there isn’t some security checking in there blocking important updates or eventually turning off functionality.
Microsoft did a great job of sharing Windows 7 in the run up to its release. I am hoping it does the same with Windows 8. That way these leaked builds become pointless as an official preview version is available instead. Microsoft also benefits from their use as it helps identify problems and get them fixed pre-launch.
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