An uncool publicity stunt?
With Vista's consumer launch date fast approaching, Microsoft tried to 'wow' the crowds in London's Covent Garden with a giant ice sculpture promoting the forthcoming operating system.
Locked inside the letter 'O' is a laptop - which one member of the public will win if they guess a three-digit-code to release the chilled computer from its sub-zero safe.
Photo credit: Gemma Simpson
In true British style, the public formed an orderly queue this lunchtime to try their luck and unlock the Asus Lamborghini VX1 laptop as performers entertained the crowds.
The software has been a "long time coming" and Microsoft wants the Vista and Office 2007 launches to stand out, a Microsoft spokesman said.
Photo credit: Robin Clark
When the correct code is entered, sirens will sound and the safe will open, releasing the laptop from the centre of the 'wow' ice sculpture.
The spectacle is part of the Vista branding in the run-up to the commercial launch on 30 January.
This is one of the first public exhibits for the Vista commercial launch but it's not about demonstrating the software, it's about fun and raising awareness, the Microsoft spokesman said.
Photo credit: Gemma Simpson