Veteran Windows Insider Xeno has released a bootable Windows 7 installation that uses just 69MB of disk space. The build is a proof of concept, lacking critical files that prevent most software from running.
Installation Details
The installation comes as a compressed 40.4MB archive, hosted on Archive.org, containing a virtual disk and a configuration file. A genuine Windows check is intact, yet a screenshot reveals it reports as “not genuine.”
Xeno advises that users must provide their own system files to achieve basic functionality. Despite missing elements like common dialog boxes, Xeno suggests future improvements could follow based on user feedback.
Future Prospects and Community Impact
The 69MB Windows 7 version echoes previous Tiny7 initiatives aimed at creating minimalist Windows environments for retro enthusiasts. Xeno acknowledges the possibility for further pruning, suggesting potential for a more usable version soon.
