vBulletin developers have launched the first public beta of their next generation software platform vBulletin 5 Connect.

This beta is available only to consumers who pay for a new license or an upgrade from their existing package.

The company has however made available a public installation that you can check out for features.

vBulletin highlighted the features of this major update:

A re-architected Core which provides easier customization and display layer extensibility through a central API
Dynamic new Site Builder tool with page templates, drag-and-drop page configuration and in-line site editing
Modernized UI designed to encourage user engagement and content creation
Customizable content modules that provide enhanced discovery, engaging users into deeper site visits
Improved social functionality including redesigned user profiles, comments functionality, an integrated messaging hub, social content curation and real-time updates
Integrated mobile-optimized version for use on smartphones, ensuring these visitors stay and return
Integrated monetization from VigLink
Built-in SEO to maximize search traffic