Many different web browsers are available today including Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and now the beta version of Internet Explorer 9. This past Wednesday, (9/15/10) Microsoft finally launched the IE9 beta to compete with the latest internet browsers. Microsoft claims that the Web is about the sites in it and that the internet browsers should be as well. Therefore, IE9 contains a basic user interface, but also supports hardware acceleration. IE9 will even demonstrate more support for the Web’s basic standards, including HTML 5 and CSS 3. As of right now the new Internet Explorer appears to focus more on the website experience rather than fancy user controls and interfaces. In my opinion, it is an exceedingly intelligent idea to focus on the actual websites, but I am hoping that Microsoft does not ignore the user interface because that is important as well. Consumers enjoy products that are easy to use and contain a lot of different features, as well as a products productivity. If IE9 can incorporate both, the Web productivity with hardware acceleration and a creative interface, then it will rise above the competition quickly.

According to statistics, for every one in three website visits, some version of Internet Explorer is used as the browser. However, for years the competition has advanced technically and caused Microsoft to lose valuable marketshare. In order for Microsoft to get on top they must take their time and create a great browser, and as of right now IE9 has plenty of potential.

Internet Explorer 9 will also be compatible with Windows 7 and utilize certain features from the operating system. With IE9, you will have the ability to save websites to the Windows 7 task-bar and then create “jumplists”, which allow quicker and easier maneuvering through websites. Microsoft has even decided to help its customers with safety by allowing you to view any add-ons that may be slowing down IE9 as it is being launched. Also, a download manager has been created to inform you if the code you are grabbing is dangerous to your computer or has a bad reputation.

From the sound of it, Microsoft has done an incredible job of  creating an innovative web browser, and may begin to take over with IE9. If you would like to try out the IE9 beta just click here and follow the download instructions. Please keep in mind that IE9 is only compatible with Windows 7 or Windows Vista. Be sure to check back for our in-depth review of IE9 upon its release.

What do you think of IE9?  Do you like a different browser?  Will this new version of IE bring it back into the minds of consumers? Tell us in the comments!

Source – IE9 Beta Info

Source – IE9 Beta Video