Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect of Microsoft Corp., today announced the availability of Windows� XP beta 2, the new Microsoft� Windows operating system for home and work, at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC). Distributed to hundreds of thousands of testers, beta 2 provides the opportunity for continued testing of the next version of Microsoft's new operating system. Windows XP, the new Windows with a new look, is built on an enhanced Windows 2000 engine that enables exciting new experiences, giving users the freedom to unlock the possibilities of the digital world.

"The broad distribution of Windows XP beta 2 through the MSDN� developer program, TechNet, Microsoft's own internal testing, and the technical beta program represent Microsoft's commitment to working with our partners, customers and employees to make sure Windows XP is rock-solid," said Chris Jones, vice president of the Client Group in the Windows division at Microsoft. "This is an ideal time for developers to build and test hardware and software for Windows XP so our customers will have the best computing experience when Windows XP is released later this year."