When asked about the news of a delayed release date going across the community, a response came. It was confirmed, and the benefits of extended alpha/beta time were also mentioned.

DevTracking - Confirmation of Release Date Delay - Original Post

Sporkfire:

"We really feels its a positive event. We're much more comfortable with the extra Alpha/Beta time, where we can take feedback and have the time to follow through on it. And, hopefully, you'll be happy with a few more months of Beta too."