Not surprised the monthly update is late or that the forums are quiet. I and several others have been pretty critical of their lack of progress, proof of any progress, and lack of substantial information. I am willing to cut them some slack because they have a lot invested in their new game and they probably have everyone helping so it isn't a bomb. Great, go make money.
However, AO has been pretty loyal for 11 years now. We are still using the original graphics engine, a software mouse, 11 year old bugs, enough content to keep a 220 busy for 3 days. Yet the game continues to generate money for Funcom with minimal effort and expenses.
Funcom was very progressive when the free accounts (froobs) came along and changed the industry. After the re-balance, new player experience, and graphics engine, I would like to see AO catch up to other games and make SL and 220 froob. Maybe reserve research, perks, shades, Atrox, and a few new things for paid users so they will always have an advantage. But open the game up more so the paid players can do stuff.