Beta – A beta version of a Web site or software is the first release to the outside community and typically used for evaluation and testing. Typically, beta means that the company and/or developer are still working on the site and software, and would appreciate feedback.
Although the terms “beta” is usually attached to a Web site or software only for a short period of time while the bugs and issues are worked out, some Web sites keep the tag line for a significant amount of time to excuse any issues that may arise with the Web site or to avoid offering full support.
Recently, Google made headline news by removing the beta label from Gmail and other services, but reminded users that Google would continue to upgrade and expand features offered through the e-mail platform.
