For VLC: apparently this version 1.0 is effectively not a special release, a "major version, with long time support". 1.0 just comes after 0.99. However, quotin

For VLC: apparently this version 1.0 is effectively not a special release, a "major version, with long time support". 1.0 just comes after 0.99. However, quoting one of the developer blog: "After the longest feature freeze stabilization period in the project's history, VLC 1.0.0-final is coming at last..." (http://www.remlab.net/ http://www.remlab.net/). In general case: for me "version 1.0 not beta" means "we give you the insurance that this software is very stable and reliable. We consider all bugs as important issues. We respect you." In the case of GMail, I'd like Google to give me this insurance and stop the "no warranty at all, f* you if there is a problem" era. I think they have the power to do it. Would it be really different? No, but I would be able to sleep at night knowing Google takes really care of my email.