Separately, Microsoft plans to launch the first beta-test release of Whistler in October. Initially expected to be just an incremental upgrade to Windows 2000, Whistler now is due to incorporate elements of Microsoft's planned .Net technology for making computing services available via the Internet. But Croft said it's not yet known which .Net features will make it into the first beta release. Possibilities include an evolved version of a planned new graphical user interface that Microsoft demonstrated during the announcement of .Net last month, he said. System administrators will have the option of enabling or disabling the new user interface, he added.
Whistler is scheduled to be ready for commercial shipments in the second half of next year.
Gillen said he doesn't view Whistler as the major step forward that Windows 2000 was for Microsoft. Most users aren't ready to consider .Net as part of their information technology plans, he added. Head to the forums . Computerworld Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of Computerworld Inc. is prohibited.