Microsoft Announces Windows 8 RTM Launch In October.

01:57 Unknown

Windows 8 is all set for its October 26 launch. Photo Credit: Ariel Zambelich/Wired

Microsoft is right on schedule with its Windows 8 launch, announcing today that the final code for Windows 8 has been released to manufacturers (RTM). The company had previously announced it would ship the RTM version of Windows 8 in the first week of August, and then make Windows 8 available to the public on Oct. 26. With Wednesday’s news, it’s clear that Microsoft is all lined up to meet its launch dates.

Windows 8 has been released to manufacturers including Lenovo, Acer, ASUS and Toshiba, along with other still unannounced partners who are developing Windows 8 hardware for the fall. With RTM, Microsoft has also launched the Windows Store commerce platform, making it possible for developers to develop and sell paid apps.

Microsoft outlined a detailed timeline for what to expect next with Windows 8. On Aug. 15, developers will be able to get their hands on the final version of Windows 8, and access the final build of Visual Studio 2012 to start building apps. IT professionals will also be able to access the final version of Windows 8 on Aug. 15. Microsoft will roll out Windows 8 access to members of various Microsoft programs, including Microsoft Partner Network and Microsoft Action Pack Providers throughout the rest of August and the beginning of September.

While this illustrates Microsoft’s ability to ship Windows 8 on time, consumers won’t see the final build until it begins shipping on new devices starting Oct. 26.

This fall is going to be incredibly busy for the Redmond giant. Microsoft has plans to release a number of products, including its Surface tablet, Windows Phone 8, and Office 15. The company has yet to announce any official dates for these products, but has set the dates for its Build developer conference for Oct. 30 to Nov. 2.

Microsoft said that Surface should be available within the weeks following the Windows 8 release, putting it at a late-October or early-November availability date. Reports also indicate that Windows Phone 8 will launch on new devices in November. Considering the timing of the company’s Build conference, it would not be surprising for Microsoft to officially release at least one of these products during the event.

Microsoft has a lot of work ahead of itself, but if the Windows 8 schedule is any indication, the company should be on track to deliver a stunning fall product launch.