NetBeans.org is proud to announce the availability of NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta!

Highlights of NetBeans 6.1 include:

* JavaScript support such as semantic highlighting, code completion, type analysis, quick fixes, semantic checks and refactoring;

* Performance enhancements including faster startup and code completion;

* Spring framework support with features such as configuration file support, code completion and hyperlinks to speed navigation;

* New MySQL support in the Database Explorer to make it easier to create, launch and view MySQL databases;

* Significant enhancements to the Ruby/JRuby support, including a new Ruby platform manager, support for the latest version of Rails and new hints and quick fixes in the editor;

* Beta support for the ClearCase version control system - made available as a plugin from the Update Center.

NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta Download
NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta Release Page

But the good news does not end there—your experience using NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta could earn you money! Enter our NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta Blogging Contest for 10 chances to win a $500 American Express Gift Certificate and 100 chances to score a cool NetBeans T-shirt!

The steps are simple:

1. Download the NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta (or later release) and try it out.
2. Blog about your experience.
3. Submit the URL to your blog.
4. Do it before April 18, 2008!

We are accepting blog entries in eight languages! Visit the Blogging Contest Page for more details,  instructions on submitting your blog URL, contest rules, and even a list of topics to get you started!

Download NetBeans IDE 6.1 Beta today, blog about it and win big!