In the last few days, I got a chance to test the beta version 1.3 of the SkyElite for MSFS by 4FlightSims.

One of the improvements that impresses me is the fixing of text displays on soft keys and info pages that I reported in Post 659.  Now they are properly aligned.
Regarding new features, the most significant should be the SE1000 AHRS mode in the PFD.  Although it is different in style and operations from the G1000s on the default aircraft in MSFS, it functions equally as good in general.

In addition, from the documents coming with the beta, some autopilot functions on SkyElite can now be operated via USB Knobs from AIMOS on Amazon. This brings extra operation flexibility than simply using keyboard, mouse or fingers alone.

Performance wise, I don’t see any degradation in the Beta with the SE1000 AHRS mode activated on all my devices.  However, there is a “Normal” option available in the SE1000 configuration in case users experience issue with it.

Following is a list of the changes and new features in the beta.

• SE1000 AHRS mode in PFD
• ADF and Engine indicators locations changed
• Green Ground AHRS mode included
• Custom Reference Speeds added – for SkyElite only
• AIMOS USB Knobs supported
• MUSIC now stores selected station and volume
• Map icons and markers redesigned
• Map wind indicator redesigned
• Length of main runway now in feet
• New altitude visual alert when reaching target altitude
• NEAR, W-ILS, LIGHT now sorted by distance

The new version is definitely a plus.  The developer says the official update is coming soon after testing.

Stay tuned.