Microsoft Dynamics AX to deliver Windows 8 apps in 2013; Major release 'Rainier' due in 2014

Microsoft Dynamics AX deals are now on a "hockey stick trajectory", the company says, with a strong end to the 2013 fiscal year last month and a pipeline that signals continued strong sales.  

The AX team plans to capitalize on that strength with a roadmap that includes an "R3" update to Dynamics AX 2012 in the fourth quarter of calendar year 2013. And the next major release of Dynamics AX is codenamed "Rainier" and will deliver a cloud-ready overhaul in Q4 of calendar year 2014. The company will also begin a more regular schedule of cumulative updates (CUs) delivered quarterly.

Next up: Dynamics AX 2012 "R3"

While "R3" is not likely to be the real name of the next release for AX 2012, Dynamics AX general manager Christian Pedersen  said this release will focus on adding both horizontal and vertical capabilities, as well as the availability of working Windows 8 apps and mobile apps.

Screenshot of the new Windows 8 app for Dynamics AX approvals

AX 2012 R3 vertical capabilities will deliver updates in warehouse and transportation, demand planning, and clientelling, according to Pedersen. R3 will also provide working versions of three new Windows 8 apps that are now available in the Windows store for demonstration purposes only.  The apps are for Timesheets,