With the latest release of ArcGIS Explorer we've had a few questions about versions. Typically we don't note version numbers with ArcGIS Explorer, and one reason we don't is that ArcGIS Explorer's release schedule differs from other ArcGIS products. We release at more frequent intervals, and if needed we refer to the release by its build number. For example, this latest release is build 1200 (and there is no ArcGIS Explorer 9.3.1).

So how do you figure out if you're using 1200 or not? First, you can just look at the ribbon. The Home tab includes the new Analysis Gallery, an obvious addition.

But a better way is to look at the build number, which you will find by clicking the Explorer button:

Then choosing ArcGIS Explorer Options:

On the options dialog, click Resources then look for the build information under About ArcGIS Explorer:

How do you know if there is an update? One way is to subscribe to this blog. Another is to stay tuned to news from ESRI. And another is check for yourself. Just click the Check for Updates tab you'll see at top right in the same location as above.

If you did this using ArcGIS Explorer build 900 you'd get this message:

And you'll always find the latest version by going to the ArcGIS Explorer Resource Center.

Factoid: Since the first release (build 248) at the end of 2006, we've had 12 releases of ArcGIS Explorer.