Howdy all - more info on the tech refresh for Beta 2 of Office 11, straight from Microsoft.
Q. When can you expect to see the Office System 2003 Beta 2 Technical Refresh?
A. We haven"t sent a specific date, but are targeting the last half of June for most languages. The languages are the same as Beta 2; English, French, German, and Japanese. Note The English-language version includes a multilingual user interface (MUI) pack for Chinese (simplified or traditional), Korean, Arabic, Japanese, and German.
Q. Will it be available via download or CD?
A. Downloads of update (patch) files will be available as the primary means of distribution. A limited number of CD kits will be available for IEP or OEP technical beta participants who cannot use the download option. However there can be issues with delivery to some worldwide locations and the CD"s could take 2 or more weeks to arrive.
Q. How will the CDs be shipped?
A. Via express carrier (as was done in previous beta) Note: there are sometimes issues with rapid delivery in some worldwide locations.
Q. Should you continue testing with Beta 2?
A. Yes, we are still utilizing the data and feedback you are providing.
Q. When will you ship the final product?
A. We have not announced a ship date yet, but are still on track to finish the product in the late summer.
Q. How will the non Office products and be handled (ie, Windows Server 2003, Exchange 2003)?
A. The Office System 2003 Beta 2 Technical Refresh will provide updates to Office files. Updates to other products may be obtained through beta or trial evaluation programs specific to that product.