Beta....can anyone explain this to me?

"beta" or "beta phase" is, simply put, the testing phase of a software, or program. programs are usually launched (in beta) publicly so people can actually try it, and hopefully they'll report bugs (or problems) they find while using the program. c',)

As a few members have already mentioned, the beta version is an early version which is still being developed and tested. Most companies issue beta versions to selected people so that they can evaluate potential conflicts with various combinations of software and or hardware. It would be impossible for companies to test all the possible permutations themselves. I agree with you that there are a great deal of beta versions around at present, and I disagree with companies promoting such potentially unstable material to the general public.

Ha. I honestly think some programs stay as a "beta" forever to excuse bad programming. Not all do this but a lot you never see anything but a beta version. Kind of makes ya wonder.

Beta means it is a computer word, any one will tell that the particular application is in Beta stage means it is left for testing. just like for trial, testing, observing. there is nothing to get confused, as per my knowledge, it is for testing purpose, how it works, do you have any other comments?

beta means testing...like yahoo beta mail..they have to give it out to few member first for testing before its launching..but even if member are already using it for their mails, they are still working on some new stuff in it.

Yes a "beta" in software terms is a testing version of software. Betas are made for people to test and report back with problems and bugs so that the company of the program can fix and improve it before the final version comes out to the general public. You should not run a beta on public computers or one that you normally use for everyday use or work environments. Betas will not hurt your computer, however you can't expect them to function as good as the final product will.