Microsoft Corp. have finally announced the official release date for their latest OS, Windows 8. Windows 8 would be officially be available on October 26, 2012.

According to the Windows Team Blog, the release date was first disclosed by Steven Sinofsky, the president of Microsoft Windows' division, during the company's annual sales meeting. The blog also posted that "customers will be able to get Windows 8 - whether in upgrade fashion or on a new PC" during the said date. Steve Ballmer, the Chief Executive for Microsoft, described Windows 8 as "The biggest deal for this company in at least 17 years. It's the glue, it's the foundation of everything Microsoft is built on."

Here is a brief list of FAQs on Windows 8:

When will Windows 8 be released?

Windows 8 would be officially available on October 26, 2012. The release date would be applicable to Windows 8 PCs and upgrades.

How much would Windows 8 cost?

Microsoft is currently offering Windows 8 for only US$40 up until January 31, 2013. The promo price would only be eligible for online purchases. An upgrade for a packaged DVD for Windows 8 Pro would cost around US$70 during the duration of the promo period.

What OS versions are eligible for the Windows 8 upgrade?

The Windows 8 upgrade is available from Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7.

What are the options for installing Windows 8?

There are different options available when installing Windows 8. Here is a list of these options:

  • Clean Install
  • Windows XP (only personal files)
  • Windows Vista (setting and personal files - no applications)
  • Windows 7 can upgrade from any consumer edition (setting, personal files, and applications)

What are the languages and markets for Windows 8?

Windows 8 will be available in 109 languages and 231 markets worldwide.

The last major update for the Windows OS was Windows 7. Since its release, Microsoft revealed that it has sold more than 630 million licenses of Windows 7 and it is utilized in the majority of business desktop computers. Microsoft is hoping for the same (or better) success rate with the release of Windows 8.