First beta of Python 3.1

The Python developers have released the first beta of Python 3.1. The new version of the free scripting language is a development version, not for production use. The developers plan this as the only beta and aim to release the final Python 3.1 in June.

Among the enhancements in the beta of Python 3.1 is an implementation of PEP 383 for "round tripping" un-decodable strings from the system, through Python 3.x's Unicode strings, more reliable. A full list of the changes between 3.0 and 3.1, including ordered dictionaries, some language changes and new modules is available. A detailed change log of differences between Python 3.1 alphas and the beta is also available. The final Python 3.0 arrived in December and was designed to be a major reworking of the language, breaking backwards compatibility with earlier versions.

See also:

• Python 3.0 Arrives, a feature from The H