UPDATE 2: The RTM build is on track and it's been compiled! We'll definitely be seeing this at the WPC, whether it's on the 13th or on the 14th with Ballmer's keynote.

**UPDATE**: Due to show stopper bugs, primarily one regarding activation, the RTM has been delayed. Please see the full post here.

Through our sources close to Microsoft, we can now confirm that the Windows 7 RTM build that will be chosen over the next few days will be officially announced on July 13th, 2009, the same day as the WPC09 (Worldwide Partner Conference) will take place in New Orleans.

As I just mentioned, Microsoft is still in the process of testing and choosing from the RTM candidate builds as they need to ensure that all show-stopper bugs present in the OS have been eradicated to ensure as much of a smooth, bug-free release as possible. TechNet, MSDN, and other partner connections will be getting their hands on the RTM build shortly after, if not on the same day.

Ever since many got to experience Windows 7 with many of it’s new features and performance improvements particularly with 6801 and Rafael’s Blue Badge tool, most fell in love with the OS. Stay tuned for our in-depth Inside Windows 7 series, which will highlight and discuss many of 7’s improvements over Vista, along with our RTM build review complete with benchmarks once the build surfaces on TechNet.

Discuss this story and share your experiences with Windows 7 in our forums!