"Microsoft will ... make it easy and convenient for PC manufacturers to preinstall IE 8 on Windows 7 machines in Europe if they so choose," the original Microsoft memo is quoted as stating. "PC manufacturers may choose to install an alternative browser instead of IE 8, and [as] has always been the case, they may install multiple browsers if they wish."

The browserless approach wasn't Microsoft's only option: The European Commission, Heiner says, also discussed the company including IE and other browsers within Windows 7 by default. It also suggested a concept wherein users would be presented with a "ballot screen" that would allow them to pick their browser of choice during the initial setup process.

"Important details of these approaches would need to be worked out in coordination with the Commission, since they would have a significant impact on computer manufacturers and Web browser vendors, whose interests may differ," Heiner responds. "Given the complexity and competing interests, we don't believe it would be best for us to adopt such an approach unilaterally."

For now, then, Windows 7 E is the answer -- at least, for Europe. Here in the States, you'll be getting the regular ol' Windows 7, Internet Explorer and all. Current Vista users are expected to be offered a to or a $99.99 upgrade to . If you recently bought a new PC with Vista preloaded, you may also be eligible for Microsoft's , which would provide a cheaper or possibly even free upgrade to Windows 7. Microsoft, however, has yet to release the specific requirements of the upgrade program.