While all Starcraft 2 fans are waiting on the beta phase to begin, Dustin Browder, lead designer on StarCraft II, has said that the playable beta will run for about "four to six months", according to kotaku.com.

With that said, the chances for a Starcraft 2 release in Q4 this year, is fading.
 

G4TV has made a great interview with the Lead Designer of StarCraft II, Dustin Browder. 

Dustin is talking about strategies, and the game's pre-beta status as well as the future for Blizzard's RTS. 

Definitely worth a watch. See the full video interview below.