vaporware

Definition

An advertised product, often computer software, whose launch has not happened yet and might not ever happen.

Etymology

From vapor + -ware.

Example Sentences

• "Our hard-and-fast rule was that if we couldn't see it, it still resided in that special zone called "Vaporware.""
• "Vaporware appeals widely to industrial and consumer buyers."
• "Some would say that Microsoft engaged in a subtle form of vaporware by preannouncing its product before it was actually ready to be delivered, then, at the last minute, announcing a short delay."