Longhorn, the long awaited new generation of Window is to be stripped of one of its main differentiators. A launch date of 2006 was also announced.

The 2006 is earlier than expected is the new stripped down nature of the Longhorn. A new method of storing files and the ability to link them across different file types sucha as video and audio files.

WinFS, was meant to be one of the three main improvements that would differentiate Longhorn from other operating systems. The new technology would also facilitate easier searching for files.

Longhorn is seen as essential. Microsoft has to keep customers upgrading to ever more complex versions.

Reasons for shedding WinFS, focus on the amount of time Microsoft has had to spend on fixing holes in Windows security.

Microsoft of course, downplayed the developments. Highlighting that Longhorn will still have improved storage and search facilities. Just not the bells and whistles supplied by WinFS.