The Redmond, Washington-based software giant had told PC makers to expect final code, which would be used to install Windows XP on new computers, around Aug 22. But Microsoft now is expected to certify final Windows XP code within the next few days.
"This build is not the RTM (release to manufacturing) build. However, we are very close," the most recent email from Microsoft to Windows XP beta testers states.
The Windows XP version released Tuesday is labeled build 2542. Microsoft issued the last publicly available build, 2526, to about 250,000 testers three weeks ago as Windows XP Release Candidate 2.
Microsoft is also expected to release Internet Explorer 6, which is integrated into Windows XP, about the same time as the final Windows XP code. When that happens, IE 6 will also become available for download from Microsoft's Web site for older Windows versions, such as 98, Me and 2000.
The sooner Microsoft delivers final Windows XP code to PC makers, the more time there will be to prep the operating system for new PCs. New PCs containing Windows XP are expected to go on sale Sept 24, about a month before the new operating system's official launch date.
Typically, computer manufacturers need between four and six weeks to test and prepare a new operating system for their PCs and portables.
Microsoft's decision to relax Windows XP licensing provisions has generated considerable interest among service providers and software companies about securing a good spot on the Windows XP desktop and Start menu, sources close to PC makers report.
Those changes give PC makers broad freedom to place icons on the Windows XP desktop and make up to five of the eight spots available on the redesigned Start menu. AOL and AltaVista are among the companies brokering deals for prime placement.
"I wouldn't be surprised if we were cutting deals right up until we ship new systems out the door," said a source close to one PC maker, who asked not to be identified.
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