Regardless of how much you hate Microsoft Windows, we just know you had that delightful sparkle in your eye when we told you earlier this week that Bill Gates has said that Windows 7 will ship next year. Turns out that is too good be true, and Microsoft is still holding on to the whole “3 years after Vista” charade, meaning that no Windows 7 for you till 2010.

But there’s more to this software mutiny, after the break!

So as to not appear as if Gates has gone senile (which he might have), Microsoft presented the following patch up:

“As is standard with the release of a new product, we will be releasing early builds of Windows 7 prior to its general availability as a means to gain tester feedback.”

They thoughtfully added,

“We’re not sharing additional information at this time.”

Way to get public support, Microshaft! Read more of this hope-killing story at InformationWeek!