I know this is a question that doesn't have a real answer....but a planned release for 05.00.00 is listed as planned for March 31st, 2008, which is now about 22 days behind us....

Is there any update on how 05.00.00 is coming?  It is being beta tested at all yet?

Yup, there are a number of issues logged and being dealt with in support.dotnetnuke.com for the beta (currently stands at beta 2). Charles is doing one heck of a job..

Don't quote me, but there is just talk of doing a public beta (but nothing 100% decided yet).... The situation might change however. There's probably no point in making a beta until the team are happy to release it as a beta (i.e. it's usable and stable as far as the team can test,).

There's no firm ETA yet, but I'm sure Shaun and team will make an announcement when it is ready. I know they are working VERY hard looking at the activity in the forums in gemini, as a "QA guy" perspective I'm more than happy so far on how it's going.... I'm glad we're not rushing to get it out come what may, but I also appreciate that people would like to get their hands on it....

So the answer Brian is I'm afraid - watch this space.... :).