Windows ME

Windows ME (Millenium Edition) is an operating system from Microsoft, released commercially September 14, 2000. Windows ME was developed specifically for the home user, just as their Windows 2000 version was developed specifically for the business user. Microsoft claims that this Windows 98 update (which has a very similar look-and-feel to the earlier version) combines a more intuitive interface for the new user with added functionality for the experienced user.

Designed to be backwards compatible with Windows 98, Windows ME works with the earlier version's applications and drivers. Improvements over Windows 98 include functions to enhance system stability and error correction (what Microsoft is calling "PC health"), as well as features designed for digital media, home networking, and online experience:

• PC health features:
  • System restore, which allows users to return to a prior (functioning) configuration when encountering problems
  • System file protection, which prevents accidental overwriting of critical system files
  • Auto-update, which automatically downloads Microsoft updates
• Digital media features:
  • Image acquisition, which facilitates transfer of images from digital equipment
  • Movie Maker, which enables digital editing, saving and sharing of videos
  • Media Player 7, which coordinates and organizes digital media operations
  • DirectPlay voice chat, which enables chat between users playing games over the Web
• Home networking features:
  • Home Networking Wizard, which walks the user through steps to connect multiple computers in a home
  • Improved technology for Internet connection-sharing
  • Simplified Universal Serial Bus (USB) networking
  • Universal plug-and-play technology
• Online experience features:
  • Internet Explorer 5.5
  • NetMeeting 3.0 for conference capability
  • Enhanced interoperability of Outlook and MSN Messenger Service
  • Easier Web publishing

Although this is the first time that many of these features have been combined into a package, it's worthwhile to note that many - including Media Player 7.0, Internet Explorer 5.5, DirectX 7.0a and NetMeeting 3.0 - are already available for free download from Microsoft's Web site. Windows ME is to be the last operating system based on the Windows 95 kernel. The next Microsoft OS (code-named "Whistler") is expected to be available in beta release next year.