TECHNOLOGY - July 15, 1995

Production of Windows 95 to Begin: Microsoft Corp. said that a final version of its long-awaited Windows 95 software operating system has been sent to floppy disk and CD-ROM manufacturers, the final step before volume production. Microsoft said the product, the latest version of its popular Windows operating system which controls the basic functions of about 60 million PCs worldwide, will be on retailers shelves and pre-installed on PCs by Aug. 24. The release of Windows 95 comes after 15 months of delays--and amid a Justice Department investigation over the inclusion of network software in the product that could yet throw a wrench in Microsoft’s plans. Microsoft said five independent production contractors in the United States will produce a million copies of Windows 95 each week. About 30 million copies of Windows 95 are expected to be sold.