Microsoft has released the first official beta within it’s web design suite of tools, Expression Web, a direct competitor to Adobe and Macromedia’s offerings (namely, Dreamweaver).

Expression Web Beta 1 is the second time we’ve been able to look at this powerful application set, the first time was a Community Technology Preview back in May, which also featured Expression Graphics and Expression Interactive.

This beta preview is part of Microsoft’s commitment to customers to provide an opportunity for feedback on the product while engaging with the community around the wants and needs of web designers and developers.

Expression Graphics and Expression Interactive are currently available via the Community Technology Preview program.