Microsoft announced that "nearly 1000 global independent software vendors (ISVs)" will offer a "range" when the new operating system will be launched early next year. Among the group of ISVs are 15 of the top 25 software companies, the Redmond-based firm said at its Worldwide Partner Conference 2006 in Boston.

A handful of the applications under development for Vista are on display at http://www.seewindowsvista.com. Consumers will be able to identify Vista-supporting applications through a "Certified for Windows Vista" logo.

Developers still looking for a way to meet Microsoft's Vista requirements, get more information with the company's "Windows Vista Developer Jumpstart Kit," which is distributed at the Partner Conference and contains videos, white papers, tools and presentations to prepare for the new operating system.