Vista SP1 RTM available on Microsoft Connect, MVLS

[Slimy]

Just because I'm not on staff anymore doesn't mean I don't link to Neowin when I can ;)

Microsoft has responded to wide disappointment from the tech community regarding the company's decision to hold the release of Vista Service Pack 1 Release to Manufacturing (RTM) in mid-March because of possible device driver issues. Many users suggested that Microsoft should quietly provide a Vista SP1 RTM download link and push SP1 out on Windows Update to the later. Instead, it appears that only beta testers will be given the chance to download the service pack, even though some of them technically already had it.

According to forum members at Neowin.net, the service pack is available in English, German, Japanese, French, and Spanish for both Vista x86 and x64. Beta testers can get it through Windows Update (WU) once they follow "4 simple steps in the attached document." Microsoft also reminded Connect users not to share the download. Testers are, of course, asked for feedback on the update process, which only works after they uninstall any previous versions of the service pack. Microsoft is also being generous to its Volume Licensing customers. The x86 and x64 DVD images of Windows Vista with SP1 slipstreamed are now available to customers with volume licensing agreements.

There is currently no information about the RTM build available on Microsoft TechNet, but I assure you I will update this post if and when that changes. I would have loved to see a public download link, but I must say I'm relieved that pirating Vista SP1 RTM is no longer the only way to obtain it.

Source: Ars Technica

[1Frothy]

Oh 'Generous' huh? :laugh:

They gave us (BT) access to the patch file and a DVD image of the 64bit and 32bit patch file; no slipstreamed images for BT.

I'm going to be as generous to Microsoft as they were to their Beta Testers.

[Ayepecks]

Not installing SP1 doesn't hurt Microsoft... only you.

[Martog]

Downloading from Connect right now, thank you, and no asking me for it!

[ViperAFK]

Downloading from Connect right now, thank you, and no asking me for it!

Can I have it?

[1Frothy]

Not installing SP1 doesn't hurt Microsoft... only you.

Oh I did install it. Full ISO with Slipstreamed SP1. Just wasn't from connect.

So I guess this answers the question that Christopher Vendemio (bangbang023) asked in the latest Podcast.

Yes - I would / did ...download a torrent of a legitimate free upgrade if it were made available to you... (Y)