Business Central 2024 Release Wave 2 Preview Version is Now Available!

The preview version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central 2024 Release Wave 2, also known as version 25, has officially been released and is now available in the Admin Center. Although we haven't received a formal announcement from Microsoft yet, you can start exploring the preview environment today.

What is a Preview Version and How Does it Work?

A preview version of Business Central is a pre-release environment that allows partners and customers to explore new features, test extensions, and validate compatibility with the upcoming version before its general availability in October. These preview environments are designed for testing and feedback purposes, giving you a head start on understanding the changes and preparing for updates. Learn more about the preview version on https://aka.ms/BCPreview

Key Points About Preview Environments:

• Early Access to Features: Preview environments provide early access to all the new functionalities and updates that will be included in the final release.
• Isolated Environment: These environments are isolated from your live data, making them ideal for testing and experimentation without affecting your production systems.
• No Upgrade Paths: Preview versions cannot be upgraded, so they remain static until they are automatically deleted.
• Temporary: These environments are temporary and will be automatically deleted at the end of the preview period.

How to Set Up a Preview Environment

To set up a preview environment and start exploring version 25, follow these steps:

Access the Admin Center: Navigate to the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Admin Center. Ensure you have the correct permissions to create environments.

Create a New Environment: Click on Environments in the left-hand menu. Select New to create a new environment.

Select the Preview Version: In the setup window, select Environment Type and choose Sandbox. Under Version, select the option for Preview (2024 Release Wave 2 - Version 25). This version should be visible in the list of available builds.

Name the Environment: Provide a unique name for your environment, such as Preview_2024Wave2_V25.

Complete the Setup: Configure additional settings such as region and application insights as needed. Click Create to finalize the setup. The new environment will be provisioned, and you'll receive a notification once it's ready.

Test Your Extensions and Features: Once the environment is live, use it to test new features, validate your custom extensions, and ensure that your integrations work seamlessly with the upcoming release.

Important Reminder

Preview environments are intended solely for testing purposes. Here are some critical reminders when working with them:

• Do Not Use Important Data: Avoid using critical or sensitive data as these environments will be automatically deleted, and data recovery is not possible.
• No Upgrade Capabilities: These environments cannot be upgraded to the final release or future preview versions.
• Temporary Nature: Expect these environments to be removed automatically when the preview period ends.

Call to Action

Now is the perfect time to get hands-on with the latest release. Microsoft Dynamics Partners should:

• Create Preview Environments: Set up and explore the new features available in version 25.
• Test Your Extensions: Validate your custom extensions and integrations to ensure they are ready for the October release.
• Prepare Your Customers: Familiarize yourself with the updates and start planning how these changes can benefit your clients.

If you have any feedback to Microsoft you can log your feedback on the Preview version in one of two ways... Either on the Yammer sub group "Public Preview 2024 rw2" or you can report your bugs on https://aka.ms/bcpreviewbugs

(If you used to give your feedback on the Preview versions on https://aka.ms/Collaborate please note that this program has been retired, please use the bcpreviewbugs link from now on.)

Stay ahead of the curve by engaging with the preview environment today. Your proactive approach will ensure that you and your customers are ready to leverage the latest advancements in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

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