Microsoft Corporation announced that it plans to release the first major update to Windows Vista OS early next year. This marks a date that has been awaited by the company’s large corporate customers before implementing a new Windows operating system. The first “Service pack” release is a package of fixes, improvements and updates. Large companies usually hold back on adopting new software in order to give Microsoft time to work out the issues that are experienced by regular consumers, which usually purchase a new computer with the latest OS already installed.

According to Microsoft.com, the company plans to start tests on Windows Vista SP1 among a small audience in just a few weeks. The first quarter of 2008 is the announced date for shipping the product to computer manufacturers. The inclusion of online updates means that this service pack will not be as significant as with previous Windows versions. Different patches and fixes are already sent through this service. According to Microsoft, Windows Vista SP1 should improve performance, reliability and security. It will not apply modifications to looks or any other major feature.