Microsoft discusses 'XP' versions of Windows, Office

February 5, 2001 —

LONDON -- To paraphrase the term: it's about the Internet, stupid. With that in mind, Microsoft Corp. has anointed its new versions of its popular software programs Windows and Office with an "XP" at the end of the names, the software giant announced Monday.

The initials, which stand for "experience," are meant to symbolize "the rich and extended user experiences Windows and Office can offer by embracing Web services that span a broad range of devices," Microsoft said in a statement. The new versions of Windows and Office are designed to be a part of Microsoft's signature .Net architecture to build Internet applications, the company said.

Office XP -- code named "Office 10" -- should get a public release by the end of the second quarter and Windows XP -- formerly known by its code name "Whistler" -- is expected to make its market debut in the second half of the year, the company said. Microsoft will release additional details about Windows XP on Feb. 13, the company said.

Specifically, Windows XP will offer, voice, video and application sharing over the Internet, as well as wireless access, while Office XP will integrate communication tools such as Hotmail, the company's Web-based e-mail service, Microsoft said. Furthermore, Office XP will include a set of Web-based "Send for Review" tools, for online document editing and review as well as a Web-based multi-user workspace called SharePoint Team Services, the company said.

Both Windows XP and Office XP are currently in beta testing, Microsoft said.

ITworld.com