Microsoft: Expect Vista SP2 in the first half of 2009
A quick update for those wondering when to expect the final version of Vista Service Pack 2 (SP2): Microsoft is saying (via one of its Web sites, at least) that it is due in the first half of calendar 2009.
The October 24 post on the Vista Team Blog from October 24 says the final SP2 release date will be "based on quality."
The October 24 blog post on the newly launched Springboard Series site for IT professionals says the Vista 2 release target is "the first half of 2009."
Microsoft officials said today to expect the company to broaden the beta for Vista SP2 on October 29 to include Technology Adoption Program partners. I've been reporting Microsoft's goal in delivering Vista SP2 (and the accompanying Windows Server 2008 SP2) is to get them out there before Windows 7 is released to manufacturing in order to lessen customer confusion around whether to deploy Vista or Windows 7. Microsoft is expected to deliver the final Windows 7 code in 2009 -- either in the first half of next year (if you're a huge optimist) or second half (if you're going by what Microsoft is telling its customers privately).
There are a few additional SP2 details in today's Springboard blog post by Windows Client IT Pro Director Celine Allee. From her post:
"It’s important to note that this release will embody a single service pack covering both client (Windows Vista) and server (Windows Server 2008), continuing the single serviceability model established with the Windows Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008 RTM release.This approach helps reduce the testing and deployment complexity for our customers."
Allee also notes Vista SP1 is a prerequisite for Vista SP2. On the compatibility front, she notes:
"We expect that Windows Vista SP2 will retain compatibility with applications that run on Windows Vista and Windows Vista SP1 and are written using public APIs. Consequently, you can (and should) continue your plans for adopting Windows Vista SP1, and roll SP2 into your deployment image when it becomes available."