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In the same week when it released Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008 to manufacturing, the Redmond company also moved XP SP3 from RC1 Refresh 2 stage into Release Candidate 2. The first RC2 release was a private build aimed at some 15,000 testers, but subsequently the testing process was opened up for the general public in two stages, the latest of which was on February 27, 2008.

Microsoft failed to highlight in any manner if the new RC2 build of XP SP3 was an evolution compared with the earlier versions, and apparently there was just reason for this. "The RC 2 release you referred to on 2/27/2008 is the exact same as previous RC 2 releases," a Microsoft spokesperson told Softpedia. At this point in time, Microsoft is offering users XP SP3 RC2 both via Windows Update and as a standalone download through the Download Center in English, German and Japanese.

"In addition to the existing Windows Update method of receiving Windows XP SP3 RC2, we have also made available standalone update packages for English, German and Japanese. These packages are the same build as RC2 (build 3311) and are available from the same location in the Microsoft Download Center. Other than being standalone update packages instead of delivered via Windows Update, all previous guidance regarding this release still applies," explained Chris Keroack, Release Manager, Windows Serviceability.

And of course that I asked if there had been any change in the plans to deliver the gold version of XP SP3. I just got the official answer, nothing more, nothing less. "We are targeting 1H 2008 for the release of XP SP3 RTM, though our timing will always be based on customer feedback as a first priority," the Microsoft spokesperson added.