Microsoft has unveiled the web page from which end users can order CDs of Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2. However the nag is still reluctant to leave the stable. English language CDs will be available on 25 August, with German, Japanese and French language CDs to follow from 1 September, and twenty one other language editions following on from that over the succeeding fortnight.

This means Microsoft technically complies with the rescheduled August ship date, although the page states that users must wait "4 to 6 weeks for delivery". We assume that English language users will be able to install the Service Pack using the Windows Update mechanism. Our prediction back in April of a release in "late summer, going on autumn" doesn't look too shabby - assuming it doesn't slip once again. The long-awaited service pack was expected to ship last year, but in August 2003, was knocked back to this year. Since when we've been boring you with news of slippages at regular intervals.

The CD will be shipped free of charge, which is nice. Click here for more details. ®

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