Microsoft has recently announced native support for various RAW file formats in its next version of Windows, known as Longhorn. In addition the 'Microsoft RAW Image Thumbnailer and Viewer' will also be available for Windows XP.
Press Release:
REDMOND, Wash. ' June 1, 2005 ' Microsoft Corp., together with leading companies in the digital imaging industry, today announced enhancements to the family of Windows® operating systems that will enable consumers to easily work with RAW files in current and future versions of Windows. Working closely with digital imaging industry leaders including Adobe Systems Inc., Canon Inc., Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. Inc. and Nikon Corp., Microsoft plans to deliver native support for digital camera RAW images... MORE