Windows 98 on the Way

Microsoft's Windows 98 is scheduled for a global release on June 25, the company announced on Monday. The price for Windows 95 and Window 3.X upgrades is estimated at US$109.

Once Win 98 is released, Microsoft says users will see improved performance and reliability, better access to the latest drivers, new options for hardware, and the Internet Explorer 4.0 built-in desktop interface.

One of the best reasons for gamers to upgrade appears to be the enhanced hardware support. As Win 98 releases, you should expect to finally use your USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports that you have never used before (on most P166s and up, that is).

You'll probably have to clean the dust out of the USB port, but you'll be able to plug in those new controllers. USB gives manufacturers more things to toy with on new controllers as it allows users to add more than one controller to the port (as well as power support). Power support could replace the extra power cable needed to power new force-feedback joysticks or controllers with LCD or LED displays.

Other gaming features include better DVD support and a built-in TV tuner for those with a TV tuner card. So now you can blast your friends and watch Friends at the same time.