Two weeks ago, I was able to secure a copy of a copy of Whistler beta build
2296. (As of now there is a later release).  I chose to write this review
in a “different” way. I will provide links to the rather large
(1024X768) screenshots, while keeping the the “article” text on this
main page to try and make it easier to navigate.

Test system specs:

• Abit KA7
• Athlon Slot 750/gorb
• 256 MB Mushkin Rev2Cas2 PC-133
• Plextor 12/10/32a
• Seagate Barracuda 18 gig 7200 rpm scsi
• Adaptec 2940uw
• Maxtor 12 gig 7200rpm IDE
• CA GeForce2
• 3com 3c905 nic (pci)
• Modemblaster 56k (isa)
• Ensonique pci sound card

Last year, a lot of us got wind of Whistler, and had our own opinions of what
it might be like. Then a beta of Whistler was leaked by some college or
university. After that, a few screenshots here and there started to show up, and
really caught my eye. Using Win2k for some time now, I have become familiar with
the layout and functions required to have my system operating well, as well as
advanced tasks that just take time to figure out and learn. Whistler is no
different. The layout, features and cosmetics are comparable to Win9X and Win2k.
This first screenshot is of the new desktop, from here you will see how the
layout has changed.

• Desktop
• Desktop w/ new background
• System properties

All of the familiar icons are not present, which might pose a problem for the
everyday “non” power user. And of course, remember this is an early
beat, things will change.

Looking at the start menu, M$ has taken a different approach, making the
start menu bigger but still very functional. A feature I like. It does the same
job, and implements the win2k style of “smart” menus. Showing your
most frequently used programs, along with a major cosmetic overhaul, my guess is
MS is trying to be more user friendly.

• Start menu