• July 4, 2001 •
Microsoft Releases Windows XP RC1
By: Arie Slob
Last Monday, Microsoft announced the availability of the first release candidate (RC1) for Windows® XP, the new Microsoft® Windows operating system for home and business. Windows XP RC1, the first feature-complete version of the operating system, provides consumers and corporations with the opportunity to evaluate and experience Windows XP prior to its Oct. 25 launch. Windows XP RC1 is the result of a tremendous amount of customer and tester feedback. More than 500,000 testers have been involved in the beta testing program to date.
"The feedback that Microsoft has received from over half a million beta testers tells us loud and clear that people are super-excited about the experiences enabled by Windows XP and that we're in the home stretch for delivering the system to our customers," said Jim Allchin, group vice president of the Windows Division at Microsoft. "Today's release of RC1 further underscores Microsoft's commitment to excellence and to delivering the highest-quality product to our customers on Oct. 25."
Through Windows XP RC1, users will be also able to experience the features planned for the final product including Windows Messenger. In addition, RC1 introduces new Visual Desktop Color, Schemes, performance improvements and greater applications and device compatibility.
Windows RC1 provides businesses with the ideal opportunity to begin evaluating Windows XP Professional and experience improved security, reliability and performance combined with new features such as Remote Assistance and Windows Messenger. Businesses can receive evaluation kits either through Microsoft TechNet at or through a subscription in the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN).
More than 100,000 participants are enrolled in the Windows XP Preview Program, and for a small fee, consumers can join the program and test drive Windows XP prior to its general availability on Oct. 25. Program members who ordered a copy of Windows XP RC1 will receive it immediately through their selected option of either a download provided in agreement with Conxion Corp. or through the post. In addition to receiving a copy of Windows XP RC1, participants will be automatically eligible to receive the Windows XP Preview Program Newsletter, which will contain technical information on how to take advantage of the powerful new functionality that Windows XP can deliver. Registration for the Windows XP Preview Program is available through the Windows XP Preview Web site.
I will take a closer look at RC1 this week, and will report about my findings later.