Today the OneCare 1.5 beta program has started, with Microsoft's pc protection suite due for updates previously submitted during tester feedback. Key changes include:

• Vista support (build 5500 or greater)
• International versions (Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, UK, US.)
• Backup to network drive
• Backup to other devices, including Apple iPod, Sony 1 GB Pro Duo memory stick, 1 GB Compact Flash Card. Other devices are supported.

The backup to other devices will be an interesting addition to OneCare, especially with the inclusion of the iPod. However for those without expensive external hard drives, or for those frequently on the move, this should be a very welcome addition. Whether the option to backup to 1GB memory cards or smaller is actually used remains to be seen, but giving users this kind of flexibility can only be a good thing.

You can sign up for the OneCare 1.5 beta at ideas.live.com.