Those helping test the next version of Microsoft Office will get their hands on beta one in the next few weeks

Microsoft has notified potential testers that it expects to release the first beta version of Office 12 in the next few weeks.

“You will be provided with access to the Office ‘12′ Beta software, documentation and support within the next two to three weeks,” Microsoft wrote in a letter to those accepted to take part in the technical beta testing. “But we wanted to let you know now that you have been accepted, so that you can make any preparations that you need.”

The letter, sent this week, also outlined system requirements for the beta version, though Microsoft cautioned that the final requirements might vary. The software calls for a machine with Windows XP Service Pack 1 or Windows Server 2003, as well as a 512MHz processor, 256MB of memory and an 800-by-600-pixel screen or better.

Full article: ZDNet.co.uk