Windows 8 Reaches RTM Milestone, Early Access for Developers

Microsoft has announced that Windows 8 has reached its release to manufacturing milestone.

Today, I am excited to announce that Windows 8 has been released to manufacturing (RTM)! This means we've completed the product development and testing of the product and have started handing off the final code to our OEM partners. They can now begin preparing new Windows 8 PCs and devices they'll introduce starting with General Availability.

Everyone will be able to purchase Windows 8 starting on October 26th either by upgrading for $39.99 or on a new PC or device. If you buy an eligible Windows 7 PC today, you will be able to purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99 (U.S.) through the Windows Upgrade Offer.


There is also early access to the Windows 8 RTM build for some programs:
● August 15th: Developers will be able to download the final version of Windows 8 via your MSDN subscriptions.
● August 15th: IT professionals testing Windows 8 in organizations will be able to access the final version of Windows 8 through your TechNet subscriptions.
● August 16th: 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 you to test, pilot and begin adopting Windows 8 Enterprise within your organization.
● August 16th: Microsoft Partner Network members will have access to Windows 8.
● August 20th: Microsoft Action Pack Providers (MAPS) receive access to Windows 8.
● September 1st: Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to purchase Windows 8 through Microsoft Volume License Resellers.

You can learn more about Windows 8 here.

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