Microsoft Issues First Post-RC1 XP Build

Microsoft released to testers late Monday evening the first post-RC1 interim build of Windows XP. Build 2520 contains very few notable changes, focusing on bug fixes in preparation for Release Candidate 2. As first reported by BetaNews, the software giant is expected to deem Windows XP golden by mid-August, with a drop date of August 28. This interim release follows last week's version separation with Windows .NET Server, which will now follow a 3xxx naming convention.

Windows XP will launch nationwide on October 25 in a billion-dollar marketing campaign. PC vendors have already begun preparing for the release, christening systems as "XP Ready" and offering discounts on upgrades to the new operating system. While pricing details have not been officially unveiled, Windows XP Personal Edition is expected to run $99 USD, with Professional Edition carrying a $199 price tag.