CNETAnalysis: Looks like we’ll get some Microsoft trick-or-treat gifts as new reports point to October as the time Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 devices are officially unleashed on the market. An anonymous source speaking with ZDNet said a series of Softie-sponsored events point to some specific squares on the calendar as key dates for devices touting the new OS. Windows 8 will be available to the public Oct. 26 , but it looks like Microsoft is planning a pre-launch party the day before to officially unveil the OS. It’ll actually share the stage with the Surface RT, ZDNet’s source said, in a New York City event. Microsoft has confirmed the tablet is going on sale Oct. 26 , so no big surprise there. There’s more… A few days later – Oct. 29 – the source reported Windows Phone 8 gets its official launch. Rumor has it the sendoff will be in San Francisco or Los Angeles. Apparently, the 29th is thought of as a “consumer launch.” Devices packing Windows Phone 8 should be available a few weeks later, or early November. We’ve already seen some Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 devices thanks to Samsung’s revelation of some key products at IFA 2012 Tuesday. Among them are the Ativ S , a Windows 8 smartphone, and the Ativ Tab , which runs on Windows RT, though we don’t have release dates for these devices yet. Christmas can come early, right? Posted by: Maryum
