Microsoft has just released Internet Explorer 8 RC1 and is available for download in case you never used Firefox or Chrome. The IE8 RC 1 released today is available for Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows Server users. If you are already using (testing) Windows 7, then you have to wait for the next OS update to try out the new browser.
Download IE8 RC1
According to IE8 blog the IE8 final release will behave same as RC1 except critical issues that arise in RC testing. The major changes for Beta releases and this RC release is the improvement of Reliability, performance and Compatibility. There is also a security feature called Clickjacking protection.
From IE8 blog
IE8 focused on how people really use the web. Consumers want a browser that makes the tasks they do every day faster and easier. The activities people spend their time on define real-world performance: navigating to websites, working with tabs, searching, keeping track of changing information (like traffic or an auction), and using the information from one site with another (as in getting a map). Everyone wants a trustworthy browser that keeps them in control and protects their safety. Developers want great developer tools, great interoperability, and a powerful platform that enables them innovate. For some people, accessibility is crucial; for some organizations, policy, administration, and deployment are essential.
The people who read this blog (IE8) and comment on it are (for the most part) technology enthusiasts and professionals. We enjoy wading through the details of browser features or how to measure performance. We also need to remember that we’re a pretty small minority of the hundreds of millions of people who browse the web. Looking at the telemetry data and usability tests and feedback from real users, we’re excited about the positive impact that this release of IE will have.
Note: Emphasis is mine
Internet Explorer 8 brings some useful features, if you haven’t tried it yet, download and try it now