Windows 8 is officially complete. Microsoft has announced that it has finally reached the RTM (release to manufacturing) milestone, meaning that no new features will be added or removed and the bug fixing begins before its October 26 release date. It also means hardware partners will be able to get the software to install it on its new computers that will come out, most likely during the holiday shopping season.
Microsoft has also confirmed several dates for enterprise and developers on when then can get Windows 8 – usually before the general release date. August 15 will see TechNet and MSDN subscribers getting access to Windows 8, with enterprise users getting it a day letter through Microsoft Software Assurance or Partner Network. Action Pack providers gain access on August 20, and those without Software Assurance on September 1 through Volume License Resellers.
August 15 will also be the day when developers will be able to gain access to several resources to build apps for the Windows Store – including the final build of Visual Studio 2012, and probably more details on what you can do with the Windows Store.