The meaning of alpha version, beta version, rc version

Many software will release some preview versions or beta versions before the official release, generally called "beta version" or "rc version", especially open source software, and even "alpha version", let's explain the meaning of each version.

Alpha version: Internal beta version. α is the first of the Greek letters, indicating the earliest version. Generally, users should not download this version. This version contains many bugs and has incomplete functions. It is mainly used by developers and testers to test and find bugs.

Beta: Public beta. β is the second letter of the Greek letter. As the name suggests, this version was released later than the alpha version, mainly for "tribal" users and loyal users to test. There are still many bugs in this version, but it is more stable than the alpha version. . This phase of the software will continue to add new features. If you are an audiophile, you can download this version.

rc version: full write: Release Candidate (candidate version), this version is further than the beta version, the function of this version is no longer added, and the function of the final release version is the same. This version is a bit like a similar preview version before the final release, and this release signifies that it is not far from the final release. As an ordinary user, if you are in a hurry to use this software, you can also download this version.

stable version: stable version. In open source software, there is a stable version, which is the final release version of open source software, and users can use it with confidence.

In addition, for commercial software, there are the following versions:
RTM version: the full name is Release to Manufacture. Factory Edition. The revision program has been fixed, and the factory packaging, CD printing patterns, etc. are just missing.
OEM version: Manufacturer customized version.
EVAL version: Evaluation version. It is a version with a 30 or 60-day expiration date.
RTL version: Retail. (Retail version), this version is the real release version, with beautiful packaging, CDs, manuals and other things and a high price.