Here today, there tomorrow?


Think Secret -- by far the most reliable of the rumors sites -- is reporting that FileMaker Pro v6.0 will be demo'd, but not released at Macworld New York. In fact, Mssr. de Plume -- chief spinmeister at Think Secret -- states that in order for FM 6 to have been ready for release at the show it should have been moved to golden master status last week, which didn't happen.

However, one Danny Davis is quoted on MacInTouch as saying that he already received a copy of FileMaker Pro 6 via FedEx. He writes:

"Just an update on my order for FileMaker Pro. We received version 6 via FedEx this morning, though FileMaker's web site still shows 5.5. Regrettably, we are upgrading from version 2.1 (!) so I can't give any specifics about new features from 5.5, though the box mentions easy integration with Microsoft Office (specifically Excel) and XML support."

It is a matter of some wonder that these two reports should appear on the same day and that they should also directly contradict each other. It's possible that Davis is either mistaken or that FileMaker somehow mistakeningly sent him a copy of the software. Then again, he may be the bearer of unexpectedly good news.

Neither FileMaker.com nor Apple.com mentions anything about the release or even debut of the industry-leading database software.

Blowing the doors off

Meanwhile, Think Secret (TS) and Squire Davis do seem to agree that FM Pro 6 does indeed included XML support. Other new features are said to include much-improved data exchange and sharing capabilities, as well as strengthened security. One of the more intriguing new features mentioned by MacInTouch is the ability to import pictures directly from a digital camera.

One TS correspondent reports that the app's new functionality "will knock your socks off."

"It will have features which make IT departments happier," another insider is quoted as saying.

Happy 4th of July.