Microsoft just announced SQL Server 2008 R2 which looks to greatly expand on the existing SQL Server 2008 platform.
Some of the benefits mentioned:
- Support for more than 64 logical processors to take advantage of multi-core technologies
- New extensions to allow for application and multi-server management
- Master Data Services for a centralized approach to defining, deploying, and managing master data
- Addins for Excel & Sharepoint (and Sharepoint Management Console)
- Enhanced data models to allow for more powerful ad-hoc reporting
All together it looks like there are some exciting features that focus on server consolidation, enterprise-wide management & advances in reporting and data access.
The CTP will be available this summer. For registration and more info, follow the link.
