Windows 8 declared done, set for October release

11 hrs.

Todd Bishop , GeekWire

Microsoft Wednesday morning?announced RTM for Windows 8, which stands for Released to Manufacturing. That's the technical phrase for, ?Woohoo, we?re done!? ? to whatever extent software can be ?done? in this era of regular online updates.

Computer makers will now be able to build Windows 8 PCs in advance of the Oct. 26 general availability.

Windows 8 RTM is a major milestone for Microsoft, which is counting on Windows 8 to keep its operating system relevant in a technology world increasingly centered on tablets and other forms of mobile computing. The overhauled interface, centered around a tile-based Start screen, will be disorienting to some PC users, but Microsoft is betting that people will be able to make the adjustment.

In a blog post this morning,?Windows chief Steven Sinofsky cites unprecedented levels of testing for Windows 8.

He writes, ?The previews of Windows 8 (Developer, Consumer, Release) have been the most widely and deeply used test releases of any product we have ever done. Over 16 million PCs actively participated in these programs, including approximately 7 million on the Release Preview that started 8 weeks ago. The depth and breadth of testing validate the readiness of Windows 8 for the market.?

Via Microsoft, here?s a timeline of next steps ?

August 15:?Developers will be able to download the final version of Windows 8 via?MSDN subscriptions;?IT professionals testing Windows 8 in organizations will be able to access the final version of Windows 8 through?TechNet subscriptions

August 16:?Customers with existing?Microsoft Software Assurance?for Windows will be able to download Windows 8 Enterprise edition through the Volume License Service Center (VLSC), allowing the opportunity to test, pilot and begin adopting Windows 8 Enterprise within their organizations;?Microsoft Partner Network members will have access to Windows 8.

August 20:?Microsoft Action Pack Providers (MAPS) will receive access to Windows 8.

September 1:?Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to purchase Windows 8 through?Microsoft Volume License Resellers.

October 26:?Windows 8 will be available to consumers either?by upgrading?or on a new PC. Eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased now qualify for an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99 (U.S.) through the?Windows Upgrade Offer.

More from Geekwire:

Source: http://www.gadgetbox.msnbc.msn.com/technology/gadgetbox/windows-8-declared-done-set-october-release-918483

taylor allderdice vincent jackson vicki gunvalson pierre garcon brown recluse spider wiz khalifa taylor allderdice eddie royal