Microsoft has released Windows 8 to the wild. Here are some important dates in the final stretch before Windows 8 general availability. Today, Microsoft signed off on Windows 8 by making the RTM (release to manufacturing) version available to hardware partners to put final code on their machines. Starting on Friday, October 26, 2012 Windows 8 will be generally available. The Windows 8 consumer and release preview versions, released earlier this year, delivered new and enhanced features such as Windows To Go for mobility and Trusted Boot for security. The RTM version did usher in a note-worthy new feature for developers: the launch of Windows Store commerce platform. Companies can now register with the Windows Store and submit Metro style apps. Also, the Windows Store is now accepting paid apps. Between now and the Oct. 26 Windows 8 release, there are a handful of dates that developers and IT pros should keep an eye on. Here’s a rundown. August 15: Developers will be able to download the final version of Windows 8 via MSDN subscriptions. IT pros 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), where they can 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 buying a new PC. Eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased now are good for an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99 (U.S.) through the Windows Upgrade Offer. The Windows 8 Release Preview is still available for download. Related content opinion Last Words Before Closing Eye on Microsoft By Shane O'Neill Jun 05, 2013 3 mins Small and Medium Business Tablets Windows opinion With Rumored Reorg, Microsoft Tries to Simplify The mounting pressure on Steve Ballmer to streamline Microsoft is finally leading to some action. By Shane O'Neill Jun 03, 2013 3 mins IT Strategy Cloud Computing Computers and Peripherals opinion What You Need to Know About the New Lync and Skype Integration Audio calls and instant messaging are officially integrated between Lync and Skype, but no video connectivity yet. Here are some key points for users and IT admins about the new Lync-Skype connection. By Shane O'Neill May 29, 2013 3 mins Small and Medium Business Internet VoIP opinion Microsoft Should Leave the Competition Out of Ads Microsoft is in no position to disparage Google and Apple in TV ads, yet it keeps doing it. A new ad for Microsoft Surface turns inward and gets it right. By Shane O'Neill May 23, 2013 2 mins Small and Medium Business Tablets Internet Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe