Virtual labs - in simple words its simple to use where a pre-installed environment is setup to try out /test SQL Server installation for your databses upgrade, that has full-featured labs. Not only this you have an option to download manual with a 90-minute block for each module if you are not sure enough...
When I have attended the MVP global summit there was much talk and sessions on SQL Server next release 'Katmai', well I cannot talk much here due to the NDA. I'm surprised to see first (may be) press release on the upcoming features information about the Katmai over here during the BI conference...