The next version will be based on 13.10. As Ubuntu does not offer LTS for this we will unfortunately also not offer an LTS here.
Major changes include newer Ubuntu base (13.10) which includes newer kernel, newer Xorg and drivers. Improved theming and some other goodies and additions to the default software are planned.
We will announce more when we actually release the system.
Yes it is normal. I guess there will be a beta announcement as soon as we reach beta status.
Thanks Pierre! You guys are doing a wonderful job. I think this is probably the best linux distro out there. Do you have any plans to to go commercial?