Windows 8 Beta Coming Soon, Release in October

With Windows 8 beta on the way, scheduled for release in late February, there's been a lot of talk about when to expect the final release. Based on previous schedules and reactions from Microsoft, there's some evidence to suggest that by the time Windows 8 is ready for release, it'll be later than Microsoft is comfortable releasing new devices with it. However, a recent news release states that straight from the horse's mouth, you can expect it in October. This might change things for small and midsize businesses (SMBs).

Windows Business Group PR Director Speaks Out

Windows Business Group director of public relations Janelle Poole says, "I think that [October is] a good guideline to consider." This is not news, as while others have speculated it won't make it to market this year, others stood by an October release. However, according to Pocket-lint, this is the most solid confirmation of that date so far. Just before that, Poole refers to the Windows 8 beta as the "consumer preview." Though it seems trivial, there's been some speculation that Microsoft did this to make everyone feel like it's closer to release, and more stable than it seems. Indeed, "consumer preview" sounds more market-ready than "beta," but it ultimately doesn't change anything.

Looking Through the Windows

Though there's been plenty of talk about the Metro-based OS release, there's been little talk about the new things it's bringing to the table. However, what little talk there's been included a new password option where you touch points on a picture in a certain pattern to log in, as discussed in another Infoboom article.

Beyond that, Microsoft designed the Metro interface for simplicity, and ultimately, for touch-based interaction. More bluntly, it's Microsoft's way of making a bigger impression in the tablet and smart phone market. Of course, it will also make it more pleasant to interact with all-in-one desktops. At the risk of stating the obvious, Windows has long been the choice of SMBs. However, when it comes to tablets, more are leaning toward the iPad despite current Windows tablet offerings. You might argue that it's because Microsoft built Windows 7 for laptops and desktops, not touch devices.

That argument entertains the idea that once Windows 8 tablets are available, SMBs will warm up to Microsoft for mobile. However, it'll be too late for any SMBs that have already invested in tablets, as businesses aren't known for switching out their hardware that quickly. A recent study shows that SMBs plan on buying tablets this year, but it doesn't state when this year. Though the iPad has become popular among businesses, it's not set in stone that all SMBs are gunning for it. Some might be holding out until October in hopes of Windows redeeming itself, as it were.

It's too early to say if it's too late for Windows tablets and SMBs to play nicely, but considering that Microsoft has taken just as much time developing 8 as they have previous releases--though Metro is a bit of an experiment--they might have a lot to bring to the table, maybe enough to make it worth it for SMBs to wait. As an IT pro, each hardware decision you make is an important one, because you don't want your company to have to pay for it a few months later. If you're still waiting, you might be glad you did.