Microsoft has changed the codename for the post-Vista version of its upcoming Windows operating system from Blackcomb to Vienna.

Software developers typically use codenames for software projects while allowing the marketing department to come up with a more appropriate name at a later stage.

Windows Vista was developed under the Longhorn codename, while the preceding Windows XP operating system was known as Whistler.

Both Whistler and Blackcomb are Canadian ski resorts north of Seattle, where Microsoft is headquartered. Longhorn is named after a bar in the same area. 

Microsoft disclosed the name change on its Channel 9 website for developers, but did not provide any data on a projected launch date for Vienna.

The next version of Windows remains as Vista, which is scheduled for release later this year.