XP RTM Closes In, September Debut Possible

Microsoft took one step closer to the release of Windows XP this evening, issuing to testers interim build 2535. This latest build comes on the heels of Release Candidate 2, the last milestone on the road to gold code. The software giant is expected to release Windows XP to manufacturing within the next three weeks, and the new OS could make a public debut on new PCs in early September with a full launch arriving October 25.

Very few changes have appeared in 2535, a sign that RTM may occur as soon as next week. Partners are quickly finishing drivers and compatibility tests on the OS, planning for a drop date of August 28 at the latest. But it is clear Microsoft wants to get XP out the door as quickly as possible.

First reported by News.com, PC makers have been given the go-ahead to begin shipping new computers with Windows XP on September 17, but may not promote the OS until October 12. Such a move is nothing new for Microsoft, as it often supplies partner OEMs and IHVs with what the company considers gold code well before testers are bequeathed a final crack at the build.

While Dell and other top manufacturers have been shipping Windows Me with an upgrade coupon for Windows XP, Microsoft has remained adamant that an XP brouhaha may not commence until it is ready. Redmond has prepared a billion-dollar marketing campaign for the October release, which will include a lavish launch event and world-wide advertising blitz.