The F# September 2008 CTP is now available!

The release represents an important step in the evolution of the F# language as its progress towards a fully supported language for the .NET platform.

F# is a simple, type-safe, efficient, scalable language for the .NET platform that supports both functional and object-oriented programming.

One of the key features of F# is that it covers areas ranging from interactive, explorative scripting to component and large-scale software development.

Here is a short list of the most notable changes:

• Scripting now has added support, both in the language, compiler and Visual Studio. From simple touches such as “File -> New File -> F# Script” to the improved F# Interactive Tool Window and the new, MSBuild-based resolution rules for assembly references, our aim here is to put nothing between you and your ability to explore a problem space with F#.
• The new and improved F# Project system enables large-scale, tool-based software development with F#. Teams can now develop large applications and libraries using standard Visual Studio techniques. This also makes F# easier to approach for developers familiar with Visual Studio.
• The new F# Language Service gives more intuitive and reliable intellisense, type tips and smoother background compilation, all essential tools to assist in writing correct software

As a future development the team of F# has split the main library of the project into two separate libraries - Core and F# PowerPack. The core library would allow a version infrequently and have a very high compatibility bar, and will be sufficient to enable F# application development. The F# PowerPack includes the FsLex and FsYacc tools, and DLLs for compatibility, math, dynamic execution and query functionality. According to Don Syme (a Microsoft researcher, a part of F# development team), F# PowerPack will be seeing more frequent updates since it was intended to support continued innovation on top of the F# core library.

The F# team has released extensive release notes as well.