Microsoft announces Exchange 12 server Beta1

Beta 1 of Microsoft’s Exchange “12″ server has just been announced. The official press release gives us the story:

REDMOND, Wash. — Dec. 14, 2005 — 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.