Release Candidate 2 was just released. Barring any problems it looks like the contents of the VIP model set are locked down. There are now 1455 planes included in SquawkBox 3.
Some code has also been added to diagnose some stuttering problems that a small minority of testers have been getting. It's unclear at this point if it's even a SquawkBox problem.
The VATSIM authentication protocol that many people have heard about is now fully incorporated into SquawkBox 3.
So what needs to happen prior to release at this point?
1. A few final protocol adjustments need to be made to ensure maximum compatibility with FSInn and the upcoming release of ASRC. These are minor. Most of the work is with coordinating the changes with others, not actually writing the code.
2. The manual needs to get finalized.
3. The VATSIM code review currently underway needs to be completed.
4. The VATSIM Board of Governors needs to approve SquawkBox 3's use on their network.
It will not be long until release now. Thank you all for your continued support and patience.