The W3C has released XML Encryption Syntax and Processing and Decryption Transform for XML Signature as Candidate Recommendations, as well as a new XML Encryption Requirements Note.

None of these documents appear to have changed substantially, and expectations for further progress are high:

"The exit criteria for this phase is at least two interoperable implementations over every feature, one implementation of all features, and one report of satisfaction in an application context (e.g., SOAP, SAML, etc.) Note, this specification already has significant implementation experience which will soon be reflected in its Interoperability Report. We expect to meet all requirements of that report within the two month Candidate Recommendation period (closing April 25)."

Remaining issues for XML Encryption include performance and interaction with validation. XML Decryption performance is also important, as is the development of interoperable implementations. The Requirements Note, after "minor changes... serves to document the agreed upon set of requirements the specification will address."

Related stories:

• XML Encryption moves to Last Call
• New Encryption and Decryption drafts
• XML Encryption Activity started by the W3C