Thanks c e 3 2 0 from our BPN forum for this scoop.
The Microsoft Download Centre has been updated with some graphical improvements on both the search, listings and item pages. Crucially in the new look download centre many application downloads are now being flagged with a "Genuine Users Symbol" Clicking the link takes you off to read about the new validation system:
"The validation process also determines if you have activated your copy of Windows. If you have not activated Windows, you will be asked to enter the 25-character product key printed on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) you received with your PC or software purchase.
Windows Activation is not required. You may access genuine Windows downloads with either an activated Windows client, or by using a Windows services activation key. Activation is, however, the quickest and easiest way to receive genuine Windows downloads from the Download Centre. Activation is also the best way to let Microsoft know that you are a Windows Genuine Advantage customer, and that you are ready to receive the service and support you that expect and deserve from Microsoft. Read more about the Windows activation process."
The document implies that is checking product activation, something only applicable to Windows XP and Windows Server 2003. So for it to still be present on other Microsoft operating systems implies that it"s also checking keys as well. Although that is pure speculation on my part. The checker is an ActiveX control and is not mandatory to complete the download process.