The latest release of Web-based blogging tool WordPress.com went live to all the WordPress.com users today morning at 8 am (IST). WordPress 2.7 will be released to the self-hosted WordPress.org users  later this month.

In  version 2.7 the whole dashboard interface has been changed. The navigation elements have been moved from the top of the page to the left side of the screen.

you’re able to minimize the new menu bar completely, giving you the entire browser window to compose a post and tweak various options. When minimized you can still get at the features though, as hovering over the edge of the menu item will pop it out, letting you quickly change an option without bringing the bar back out.

Another noteworthy addition is "QuickPress," which lets you write and publish a new post right from the dashboard without having to click New Post.

The new design has made navigation easier and faster. The whole list of features can be found here.