Windows 8 has been released to manufacturing (RTM), Microsoft announced today, meaning that the company has completed the product development and testing and has started handing off the final code to its OEM partners. People will be able get Windows 8 starting on October 26th either by upgrading for $39.99 or on a new PC or device. And if you buy an eligible Windows 7 PC today, you will be able to purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $14.99 (U.S.) through the Windows Upgrade Offer.

However, Microsoft has a number of programs that provides various audiences early access to the Windows 8 RTM code to help prepare for Windows 8 as it enters the marketplace this fall:

- August 15th: Developers will be able to download the final version of Windows 8 via your MSDN subscriptions.

- August 15th: IT professionals testing Windows 8 in organizations will be able to access the final version of Windows 8 through your TechNet subscriptions.

- August 16th: Microsoft's customers with existing Microsoft Software Assurance for Windows will be able to download Windows 8 Enterprise edition through the Volume License Service Center (VLSC), allowing you to test, pilot and begin adopting Windows 8 Enterprise within your organization.

- August 16th: Microsoft Partner Network members will have access to Windows 8.

- August 20th: Microsoft Action Pack Providers (MAPS) receive access to Windows 8.

- September 1st: Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to purchase Windows 8 through Microsoft Volume License Resellers.

Windows 8 general availability is slated for Friday, October 26, 2012.