Microsoft is preparing a major update to its Vista operating system. Windows Vista Service Pack 2 will enter beta testing next week, the company has confirmed, with a public release date to follow.

As speculated earlier this week, the new Vista Service Pack 2 will incorporate all fixes released since Service Pack 1, along with a slew of new improvements aimed at increasing support for new hardware and technology standards. The highlights:

* The introduction of Windows Search 4.0, said to speed up searching and deliver better keyword relevancy

* The addition of the Bluetooth 2.1 Feature Pack, which will support emerging Bluetooth technology

* The added ability to record data to Blu-ray discs directly within the operating system

* Improved WiFi setup with changes to Windows Connect Now, Vista's network configuration tool designed to detect and configure wireless devices.

* Better time zone-safe file synchronization with new support for the exFAT file system, which allows for UTC timestamps.


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