Windows XP 64-bit Edition delayed again?

WE HEAR that the 64-bit version of Windows XP for AMD x86-64 processors is now scheduled for release at the beginning of Q2 2004, so all being well that should be sometime in April next year, with, we presume, the hype happening at CeBIT in March.

Although versions of Microsoft Windows Server 2003 for AMD 64-bit processors have been about for a while - in fact for select hacks and key AMD customers and partners, Windows XP 64-Bit Edition Beta 1, Build 1069 was provided by Microsoft at around the time of the launch of the AMD Athlon 64 and 64 FX back in September - the question on everyone's lips seems to be why has there been a delay of some seven months, for even a Release Candidate, of the desktop version…

Our information is that a significant amount of Microsoft development resources has been switched to focusing on rolling out Windows XP Service Pack 2, and this seems to be shaping up to be one of the most significant Service Packs that Microsoft has released.

Against the background of Microsoft putting up bounties , and the misery caused to millions of users worldwide, this seemingly languishing , until now, in obscurity on the MSDN site - and entitled "Windows XP Service Pack 2: A Developer's View" - seems to outline the urgency the Vole is treating security with its flagship desktop operating system. µ