Dubbed as fourth and final SQL Server 2016 release candidate, the latest release marks the important milestones in the release of SQL Server 2016 and is now feature complete with rich set of capabilities. The latest release of SQL Server 2016 RC 3 includes enhancements, which primarily consist of bug fixes. However, Microsoft revealed that they are continuing to refine the product for general availability.
Microsoft also disclosed through a blog post that SQL Server 2016 Candidate 3 include real-time operational analytics, rich visualizations on mobile devices, built-in advanced analytics, new advanced security technologies and new hybrid scenarios that allow you to securely stretch data to the cloud.
In addition to SQL Server 2016 Release Candidate 3, Microsoft also announced a preview of the Power BI app for Android, with support for SQL Server 2016 Reporting Services. With the help of the update, you can seamlessly bring your on-premises data to your Android phone and stay on top of your business from anywhere with out-of-the-box mobile reports and KPI tracking.
To experience the new and exciting features in SQL Server 2016 and the new rapid release model, you need to download the preview and start evaluating the impact these new innovations can have for your business.
Earlier, Microsoft announced SQL Server 2016 RC2 at the beginning of the month during Build 2016 conference in San Francisco. This version includes features like row-level security, Stretch Database capabilities and support for the open source R statistical computing programming language.
SQL Server 2016 RC3 can be downloaded here for an evaluation period of 180 days.