October 19, 2004

Microsoft said last Friday it will release previews of the next version of Microsoft SQL Server in advance of the beta release, expected for the first quarter of 2005, according to reports.

The company will reportedly release Community Technical Previews and continue releasing interim versions between the major beta releases.

Microsoft said the technical previews are an extension of its effort to give developers access to more builds of its key tools and products, allowing them to get more hands-on experience with new features and enhancements.

The new approach was outlined at Microsoft's Professional Developer Conference last October.

The final version of Microsoft SQL Server is expected for next summer.

Source: The WHIR