Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of the first release candidate (RC1) for Windows� XP, the new Microsoft� Windows operating system for home and business. Windows XP RC1, the first feature-complete version of the operating system, provides consumers and corporations with the opportunity to evaluate and experience Windows XP prior to its Oct. 25 launch. Windows XP RC1 is the result of a tremendous amount of customer and tester feedback. More than 500,000 testers have been involved in the beta testing program to date. "The feedback that Microsoft has received from over half a million beta testers tells us loud and clear that people are superexcited about the experiences enabled by Windows XP and that we're in the home stretch for delivering the system to our customers," said Jim Allchin, group vice president of the Windows Division at Microsoft. "Today's release of RC1 further underscores Microsoft's commitment to excellence and to delivering the highest-quality product to our customers on Oct. 25."

Through Windows XP RC1, users will be also able to experience the features planned for the final product including Windows Messenger, a new real-time communications facility that enables people to see, talk, work and play with friends, family and colleagues online. In addition, RC1 introduces new Visual Desktop Color, Schemes, performance improvements and greater applications and device compatibility. Building on the momentum of the Internet and digital media, Windows XP includes many improvements that increase productivity and provide both business and home users with an easy-to-use and exciting PC experience.

Windows XP extends the personal computing experience by uniting PCs, devices and services and brings the solid foundation of Windows 2000 to home PC users enhancing reliability, security and performance. Windows XP acts as an integration point on the Web, both in home, on the move and at work with Internet Explorer 6 technologies and improved Web services. Windows XP also makes end-to-end scenarios, such as photography and music, intuitive and dependable.