Microsoft has promised that they'll release converters that will enable earlier versions of Microsoft Word on the Macintosh to open XML-based .docx files created with the new Word 2007 in Windows. But until that happens, and even afterwards for everyone who might need to convert a Word 2007 .docx file into RTF (Rich Text Format) or text for use in another word processor or desktop publishing program, look to Panergy's new docXConverter. It's simple to use, since all you have to do is double-click a .docx file. docXConverter automatically launches and converts the file, putting it in a folder you specify and assigning it to open in the application of your choice. Formatting should be identical between source documents from Word 2003 and Word 2004 and the converted RTF document, and Panergy is working on complete conversion of the new elements that Microsoft introduced in Word 2007. docXConverter requires Mac OS X 10.2 or later, and is available as a free 30-day or 20-conversion demo (3.6 MB) if you want to test it on your particular documents.

In this week's DealBITS drawing, you can enter to win one of two copies of docXConverter 1.1 Premium, each worth $29.95. (The premium version costs $10 more than the normal version, but includes a maintenance plan comprising 2 years of updates.) Entrants who aren't among our lucky winners will receive a discount on docXConverter Premium, so be sure to enter at the DealBITS page linked below. All information gathered is covered by our comprehensive privacy policy. Be careful with your spam filters and challenge-response systems, since you must be able to receive email from my address to learn if you've won. Remember too, that if someone you refer to this drawing wins, you'll receive the same prize as a reward for spreading the word.