Thanks to Alex for the heads up :)
Microsoft is mapping out the next major version of its .Net Framework, with features designed to make it easier for enterprise developers to deploy .Net applications and Web services.
.Net Framework 2.0, code-named Whidbey, should be available late next year, but coding on the technology is scheduled to begin this month, according to developers close to the Redmond, Wash., company. The first beta is targeted to go out in January 2003, with a second beta of Whidbey set for August 2003, according to sources. The final version is expected to be released in December 2003.
Microsoft will release an interim .Net Framework, Version 1.1 - code-named Everett - later this year. Everett code will be folded into Windows .Net Server Release Candidate 2, said sources, as well as the first beta of the next release of Visual Studio .Net before year"s end.