Well, it’s finally here. Windows Media Player 11 Beta is finally officially released as a public beta.

Please note that beta software is not as stable as RTM (Release to Manufacturer) programs. Beta software does carry risks of loss of data, etc… Only install the beta if you are an experienced user.

EDIT: This software is now released as a final version. You may get it here.

Microsoft is planning a Public Preview Beta of Windows Media Player 11 for XP on Wednesday, May 17th. Users will be able to download the beta here (anyone will be able to get it): http://www.microsoft.com/windows/wi…ia/default.mspx

The final RTM release is scheduled for late June 06.

Here is a list of features that will and will not be in the XP version:

Features in WMP 11 for XP (June 06):

* New UI
* Support for better synchronization for portable devices
* Album “stacks” of album art
* Indexed libraries with search-as-you-type features
* User controlled downgrade of quality for DRM content to allow for smaller files
* DRM content will contain metadata that shows what the user is allowed to do with the file
* Includes Microsoft and MTV’s Urge music store

Features in WMP 11 for Vista (Early 07):

* Everything that is in the WMP 11 for XP
* Playing content (including DRM) on your PC from another PC or device
* Viewing content from the Vista Media library on other PCs or digital devices, such as Tivo
* Playback of High Value video content
* Shell integration with Windows Media Player
* Content Indexer change notification to sync My Music and WMP library
* DVD Fullscreen playback enhancements
* DRM Transcode
* High quality video streaming over home networks
* Media foundation for playback

Be sure to check back here often! The Windows Media Player 11 Beta Center is up and running. Check it out here or to your menu on the right.