GeekSmack is reporting that Windows Live Essential 2011 RC is to be released on September 9, a date not yet stated by Microsoft. This release is reported to be a milestone release where many common bugs and fixes are updated and fixed. Developers are eagerly awaiting the promised new features said to be coming out with the RTM, like the Ribbon UI or tabbed chatting in Windows Live Messenger.
The All this leading up to the RTM which at the moment is unannounced but would seem to be fast-approaching.