Windows 8 Due in October: Report

A new report suggests that Microsoft will send its first shipment of the retail version of its highly-anticipated Windows 8 operating system (OS) in October, 2012.

This schedule would give the Redmond-based software giant a chance to market its new operating system during the holiday shopping season, and would allow hardware makers like Dell to package the OS with their upcoming PCs.

The rumor is reported by Bloomberg News, which bases the story on up-to-the-minute reports that Microsoft will release its final version of Windows 8 to manufacturers during the summer of 2012.

Historically, this is the same schedule as Microsoft's release of Windows 7 to manufacturers, which hit retail stores just prior to the Christmas shopping season.

Rumored October Release of Windows 8 Well Anticipated

Bloomberg says its sources include "people with knowledge of the schedule." What's more, few industry experts are questioning the reported timing of Windows 8, since for some time most analysts have been predicting a fall launch.

Aside from forecasting Window 8's launch time frame, Bloomberg is also reporting that only five hardware devices will be running both Windows 8 and the ARM processor once its newest operating system is released.

It's worth noting, however, that many Windows 8 tablets will be available using Intel's older x86 architecture. About forty devices running this family of processor chips will reportedly be ready for product's anticipated fall launch.

Shortage of ARM Devices Could Pose Big Problem for Microsoft

The shortage of Windows 8 ARM devices could create problems for Microsoft, which is hoping the chips -- which allow for thinner, lighter and more portable tablet computers -- can help eat into Apple's runaway lead in this rising market.

According to a recent report, Apple sold an astounding three million units of its third generation iPad in just its first weekend of availability. The new iPad went on sale last Friday, March 19, 2012. (Source: usatoday.com)

In February, Microsoft Windows President Steven Sinofsky said it was his company's "collective goal" to help PC makers ship ARM devices at the same time that Windows 8 becomes available to PC users. (Source: cnet.com)

Now Gartner analyst, Michael Gartenberg, has been quoted as saying: "The last thing Microsoft wants to have is a situation where there are no compelling Windows tablets at a time when the new iPad looks like it's going to be a good seller for the holidays." (Source: businessweek.com)