I tried downloading Movable Type 4 Beta 1, but had no luck installing it. However, I did manage to try out the new interface at this demo site. My general read is that it is very much a work in progress. Beta 1 is really still in alpha. A number of people are reporting various issues with the install, though with effort and persistence you can make it through. I just don't have the time. Sixapart estimates 6 to 12 weeks for the beta period. I would not be surprised if it was closer to 12.
I'd say I have just about the patience of Richard McManus for the Movable Type platform. I want to use it produce content for my domain. I would like to install and be ready to publish. I'd like to be able to add the functionality that typically gets spread out in multiple plugins easily. I'd really like the posting and aggregating from other blogs to go easily.
My quick play with the beta site tells me it is pretty promising. Posting seems to have taken a big step forward, and big improvements in aggregation are promised. I'm pretty interested to see whether enough of a community will return to Movable Type to keep it going. People over in Shelley Powers' comments seem to think it will.
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