image Microsoft has released three more updates for Windows Vista mainly targeting performance, stability and reliability, one thing that Microsoft and Vista currently lacks. Service Pack 1 is in beta, but will not be ready for launch for several months, but to get get back some credibility for Windows Vista and to get the sales back on track I think Microsoft will continuously release these kind of updates. And of course they will get a wider target area for testing them.

It seems like Microsoft has abandoned the Patch Tuesday for the Windows Vista program to get these patches out as soon as possible.

The updates are not yet on Windows Update, but you have the links below.

Update for Windows Vista (KB941649) This update improves the compatibility, reliability, and stability of Windows Vista. Contains for example these improvements:

  • It extends the battery life for mobile devices
  • It shortens the startup time of Windows Vista by using a better timing structure - this is long awaited
  • It shortens the recovery time after Windows Vista experiences a period of inactivity - this has really annoyed me a lot!

Download for x86 or x64. Requires a reboot after installation.

Cumulative update rollup for USB core components in Windows Vista (KB941600**)**This update focuses on a lot of USB problems, such as hibernation and sleep problems related to USB devices and various STOP errors.

Download for x86 or x64. Does not require a reboot after installation.

Update for Windows Vista (KB941651 **not published yet)**This is a Windows Media Player patch that improves the reliability of Windows Media Player 11 for Windows Vista in certain scenarios.

Download for x86 or x64. Requires a reboot after installation.