.NET Compact Framework Second Beta Released

As part of the company's beta release of the next version of Visual Studio, code-named Everett, Microsoft today released the second beta of the .NET Compact Framework. The Compact Framework is a subset of the full desktop .NET Framework designed to run on mobile and thin client devices. Microsoft also announced today the release of SQL Server CE 2.0, a compact database designed for mobile applications.

"We're delivering a complete, coherent mobile development platform so that .NET developers can hit the ground running to create and deploy smarter mobile applications," said vice president of the Developer Platform and Evangelism Division at Microsoft, Tom Button, in today's announcement.

SQL Server CE 2.0 integrates with the updated .NET Compact Framework using smart devices extensions included with Visual Studio .NET. The tools enable developers to easily create applications that span multiple hardware platforms and devices. Version 2.0 improves performance, and includes a new connectivity wizard and an enhanced on-device query tool.

"The vast community of .NET programmers will bring a new level of skill and imagination to mobile development, which will ultimately translate into powerful new applications for enterprise end users," said Button.