Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) FAQ
 Windows
XP Service Pack 1 (XP SP1) is more than just a
collection of security hot-fixes and bug fixes; instead,
it's a full-on interim Windows release with tons of new
functionality.
So here's the first--and most comprehensive--FAQ dedicated to the
next version of Windows XP Home Edition and Professional anywhere! Be sure to
read my
Windows .NET Server FAQ
and Longhorn FAQ
for information about other upcoming Windows versions.
Q: What is Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1)?
A: XP SP1 will roll up critical updates and contain
enabling technologies for "Mira" and new types of PCs
like the Tablet PC and the "Freestyle" enabled PC. It
will also include the changes required by the consent
decree with the DOJ and the nine states. More
information about SP1 will be available soon, right here
on the SuperSite.
Q: What are "Mira" and "Freestyle"?
A: For more information about these exciting new
technologies, please check out my
Mira and
Freestyle technology showcase.
Q: When will XP SP1 ship?
A: Microsoft says late 2002, so I'm guessing that a
September/October 2002 release date is likely. This will
give PC makers time to integrate the new XP into PCs for
the 2002 holiday season.
Q: What's the XP SP1 code-name?
A: Currently, XP SP1 does not have a code-name.
Q: Wasn't this supposed to ship in early 2002?
A: Yes, the original plan was to ship XP SP1 in the
first half of 2002. But face with the problem of how to
ship new enabling technologies such as Mira and
Freestyle, Microsoft decided to integrate it all into a
single release aimed at satisfying the need for a yearly
Windows release.
Q:
When will
the XP SP1 beta test start?
A: Expect the XP SP1 beta to be closed to existing XP
testers only; I expect the beta to start
this spring.
Q: So what about Longhorn?
A: Longhorn has been delayed until late 2003. See my
Longhorn FAQ and showcase,
the Road to
Longhorn, for more information about
Longhorn.
|
