Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced that Windows 7, next version of its operating system, is on track for sale by 2009 holiday season.

It is anticipating that Windows 7 "will be available to customers in time for the holiday shopping season," the software giant said in a press release.

"With early RC (Release Candidate) testing and extensive partner feedback we've received, Windows 7 is tracking well for holiday availability," said Bill Veghte, senior vice president of the Windows Business at Microsoft.

To get Windows 7 out on the market as quickly as possible may help Microsoft do some damage control on its brand, which has been tarnished by the backlash against Windows Vista, current version of its operating system, some analysts said.

At the end of April, Microsoft unveiled the Release Candidate of Windows 7, indicating that the operating system is entering final phases of development.

(Xinhua News Agency May 12, 2009)