The last public test build of Windows 8 is done and delivered. So what's expected between now and when you can get your hands on a Windows 8 PC or tablet?
Microsoft on Thursday delivered the final public test build of its Windows 8 operating system, the Windows 8 Release Preview.
So what happens next?
A few select partners and testers will likely be provided privately with some more release candidate/release preview builds so they can see the final set of tweaks the Softies make to Windows 8 before the operating system is released to manufacturing (RTM). Among the coming tweaks is the removal of the current Windows Aero interface, as Microsoft officials acknowledged in a blog post (buried toward the bottom) earlier this month. Another is an expected under-the-hood code change that will prevent users from adding third-party-developed Start Buttons or altering their systems to boot directly to the Desktop, avoiding the Metro Start Screen.
Microsoft's official word is that "the final phases of the RTM process" will happen in about two months if all goes well with the final tweaks. This puts RTM at "about" July 30. I've been getting tips from my various sources that Microsoft is telling privately some of its inner circle folks thatRTM for Windows 8 will happen in July. It's worth remembering that the mantra of the Windows client team -- just like the Office team -- is underpromise and overdeliver. That means the stated two-month RTM goal is the "worst case" scenario. It's the "this is the date we know we won't miss" public commitment.
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