Today Microsoft Corp. announced the official name of its next-generation Windows� client operating system, formerly code-named Longhorn. Windows Vista is its name and we will probably hear a lot about this name over the next eight years.

The next version of windows that Microsoft has been working has received its official name. “Windows Vista” has been touted as the new name for the next development of Windows, originally codenamed “Longhorn.”

Video of the name announcement can be seen via the link below.

Windows Vista Beta

Beta 1, targeted at developers and IT professionals, will be available by August 3rd 2005.

Watch the “Longhorn” naming announcement video.

You’ll need Windows Media Player to view the video.

The word ‘vista’ defined means “pleasing view.” According to a source, the name had been first floated about six months ago, although not much more had been said in the following months.

Longhorn, or Windows Vista, Beta 1 will be available by August 3, Microsoft said Friday. Beta 2 is expected in early 2006, with the final next generation Windows release expected by the end of next year.