Microsoft has announced that Windows 7 has been released to manufacturing.
The RTM milestone is generally the penultimate stage before GA (general availability), and indicates that a product has met designated standards. In Microsoft's case, we're told that Windows 7 has been "through significant testing" and build 7600 has met the software giant's quality bar.
Looking ahead, Microsoft adds that its RTM code will be delivered to partners in the next few days. That should mean that we'll see numerous Windows 7 systems announced from not until October 22nd - the official date for general availability.
Killing two birds with one stone, we're told that Windows Server 2008 R2 has also RTM'd today.
All sounds like an obvious development, but it's a momentous occasion for all those who've worked on the software - including over 10 million people who took part in the Customer Experience Improvement Program. Unable to contain its excitement, Microsoft has issued the following celebratory video:
