MICROSOFT has unveiled the beta test version of Internet Explorer 9, the first of a new generation of web browser programs.

These programs tap into the powerful processors on board newer computers to make websites load and run faster. IE9, which is free, also arrives with a more minimalist look and a few new tricks that start to blur the distinction between a website and a traditional desktop application.

Following the lead of Google’s stripped-down Chrome browser, Microsoft’s IE9 comes with far fewer buttons, icons and toolbars cluttering up the top of the screen.

More details here and you can download it from here to try it out, but check the system requirements first.