Microsoft Announces Exchange “12” Beta 1

Next version of Exchange Server to deliver more control, expanded access and better protection.

Microsoft Corp. today announced the release of Microsoft Exchange “12” Beta 1 — the code name for the next version of its leading server for e-mail, calendaring and unified messaging, to a select group of testers.

Exchange “12” will reduce the cost and complexity of the messaging system by providing more control for IT administrators, more value and expanded inbox access for end users, and increased security and compliance for organizations.

With the release of Beta 1 — a major development milestone that gives customers, original equipment manufacturers, independent software vendors and systems integrators worldwide the opportunity to preview and provide feedback on Exchange “12” — Microsoft is on track to make the final release generally available in late 2006 or early 2007.

“Today, end users are demanding 24×7 global access to their inboxes from a broader range of devices. At the same time, organizations are faced with spam and virus threats, and the demands of maintaining compliance with emerging regulatory requirements,” said David Thompson, corporate vice president of Exchange Server at Microsoft. “Exchange ‘12’ is a highly available messaging solution that allows IT administrators to address these challenges.”