It looks like Microsoft has sorted out the issues that came up with its new Service Pack for Windows XP as well as Vista SP1. XP SP3 has been sent out to Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Centre and Microsoft has also resumed automatic distribution of Vista SP1. Try to remain calm; I know it’s exciting. [Microsoft]
Microsoft’s not only delaying Windows XP SP3 temporarily, but they’re also pulling off Windows Vista SP1—which has already been pushed out to automatic software update—because of potential incompatibilities. Most of us don’t need to worry about it since this is just an issue with MS’s SQL Servers that affect Microsoft Dynamics Retail management systems. Unless you’re running a SQL database at home to track the chore distribution for your family, you can go ahead and manually fetch the update and install it yourself. [PCWorld]
It’s April 29, and Microsoft has to make the unfortunate decision of delaying Windows XP SP3 due to compatibility issues between it and Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System, something none of you should be familiar with unless you work in retail. If you don’t, the service pack has been unofficially available for a couple days now and you can go ahead and install it, but the final final version won’t be ready for a little bit. [PCMag]
The official release is on April 29th, but if you are the impatient sort and enjoy the thrill of downloading unproven software, you can get your hands on it now via MajorGeeks and Softpedia. [Major Geeks and Softpedia via Lifehacker]
Window’s XP Service Pack 3 has gone to manufacture, according to its release manager, who posted the news on Microsoft’s forums. And April 29 is the date that we’ll be able to get our unwashed paws on it, via the web. Full text is after the jump.
Windows XP SP3 will start shipping to manufacturers and IT workers next Monday, 21/4. The Following Tuesday, 29/4, it will be made available for download over Windows Update. This is the final version of SP3, following the RC1 and RC2 builds offered earlier in the year, which promises to boost performance by 10% and network access protection. [ComputerWorld]
Good news for you stubborn, Vista-wary Windows users still rocking XP: Microsoft is prepping Service Pack 3 for your reticent asses for next month. This is almost certainly the last major update for the OS before Microsoft really, officially gives up and hopes and prays that you just upgrade to Vista already, as they won’t be selling new copies of it anymore as of the end of June. [The Inquirer]
Windows’ much demanded Vista Service Pack 1 is finally free for you to download from Windows Update or Microsoft Download Centre. Microsoft says SP1 will bring “improvements that address many key pieces of customer feedback, especially in the areas of performance and reliability.” Gaming and networking are two particular areas of improvement, though experienced opinionators like our beloved Mossberg think it may well just be turd polish (not his words, to be sure). Want more info? Keep your eyes on this blog.
There’s no official confirmation from Microsoft, but many sources seem to claim that Windows Vista’s Service Pack 1 will be officially available starting tomorrow, March 18 (US time). One of these sources is Amazon, which lists the SP1 as being released on March 18. Another is TechARP, which got the RTM date on SP1 correct a few months ago. We’ll see what the real deal is tomorrow when you can download and install it on your current machine direct from Microsoft. [Amazon via Computerworld]
Though Vista’s had its share of bugs, flaws, and faults, a patch coming soon should bring some good results. But at the end of the day, when all’s said and done, We’ll still be wiping our asses with Service Pack 1. [Impress]
