Contrasting Windows: New feature comparison

Since 2002 when Microsoft introduced Windows XP, its signature operating system has proved to have more stamina than anybody would have originally thought. Despite missteps in Vista, the OS still managed to introduce useful new features, and set the stage for Windows 7.

This chart provides a run-down of some of the major features introduced in each Windows iteration, as well as a quick look at the minimum hardware requirements for XP, Vista and 7. Keep in mind that Windows 7 is still in its testing phase, though it's not expected that other major features will debut before it's released at the end of the year. You can download the Windows 7 release candidate from CNET Australia Downloads.

As others have noted, Windows 7 does one thing similar to Windows XP: it doesn't require a major hardware upgrade. In fact, it can run on less powerful machines than Vista. By making 7 as accessible as possible for existing computers, Microsoft looks to be angling to regain lost market share and confidence by giving users an operating system they don't have to struggle with. Until Windows 7 makes its public debut, though, this is little more than informed speculation.