An important new memo issued by the USCIS on 12/5/2006 confirms:

1.  Time spent in H-4 status does not count against the H-1B time limit of 6 years. 

2.  A person in H-1B status does not need to be in the U.S. to apply for a 7th year extension.

This new policy suggests various strategies for extending H-1B status and avoiding the 6-year limit, especially for married couples who are both eligible H-1B status.  Click here for the full text of this memo.