The first beta of Windows Vista SP2 has just been released to the public via Microsoft’s Customer Preview Program.

Microsoft blogger Mike Nash reminds us that this CPP release is a way for enthusiasts and professionals to do compatibility testing in advance of SP2’s release date. “The CPP is intended for technology enthusiasts, developers, and IT Pros who would like to test Service Pack 2 in their environments and with their applications prior to final release,” he said.

Though the CPP will be available to any taker, Nash advises caution for a majority of users. “For most customers, our best advice would be to wait until the final release prior to installing this service pack,” he said.

In terms of new features, the notable change list is extensive. This excerpt demonstrates what kind of changes can be found in the new beta:

• SP2 contains Blue tooth 2.1 feature pack supporting the most recent specification for Blue tooth technology
• Ability to record data on Blu-Ray media,
• Adds Windows Connect Now (WCN) Wi-Fi Configuration to Windows Vista SP2,
• exFAT file system now supports UTC timestamps, which enables correct file synchronization across time zones.
• SP2 provides support for new form factors, such as ICCD/CCID. new form factor support –example USB form factor as opposed to PCMCIA).
• Support for the new VIA 64-bit CPU

Downloads

Windows Vista x86-32: Here
Windows Vista x86-64: Here