SQL Server 2008 RC0 is now available for download!
What's new in SQL Server 2008
If you're not familiar with what's new for developers in SQL Server 2008, check out this video with Christian Kleinerman showing off new T-SQL statements, SQL IntelliSense, Geo-location, File stream support, and more. SQL Server Books Online has also been updated and it shows the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on new features in SQL Server 2008.
Upgrade Advisor
Make sure to run the SQL Server 2008 Upgrade Advisor that analyzes your SQL 2000 and SQL 2005 database instances to identify any issues which would require feature or configuration changes.
Download Links
Visual Studio 2008 Service Pack 1 Beta Required
Note: SQL Server 2008 RC0 requires that you install Visual Studio 2008 SP1 to work.
SQL Server 2008 RC0 Feature Pack
In addition to the product bits, the SQL Server team has also released a Feature Pack that includes a set of redistributable components and additional features like Command-Line utilities, SQL Server Compact 3.5 SP1, Add-ins for Microsoft Office 2007 and Reporting Services for Sharepoint, SQL Server CLR Types, and more.
