Microsoft has announced that it has finished testing and product development of its latest Windows 8 operating system and it is now released to manufacturing (RTM). The final code has been sent to OEM partners and is on time for the October 26th general availability.

As noted, the general availability of Windows 8 kicks off on October 26th and will be available as a US $39.99 upgrade or on a new PC device as well as via special US $14.99 deal if you buy an eligible Windows 7 PC and get the Windows 8 Pro upgrade through the Windows Upgrade Offer.

The "9200" final build will roll out to developers and IT professionals via MSDN and Technet subscriptions on August 15th. Windows 8 Enterprise edition will roll our via Volume License Service Center for customers with existing Microsoft Software Assurance on August 16th. Microsoft Partner Network members will get the Windows 8 on the same day, August 16th. Microsoft Action Pack Providers (MAPS) will get access to it on August 20th and Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to purchase it through Microsoft Volume License Resellers on September 1st.

On August 15th, developers will also get access to all the tools and resources they need, including Visual Studio 2012, in order to happily design, build and sell apps in the Windows Store.

Of course, Windows 8 Release Preview is still available in case you want to give it a whirl before the official October 26th launch date.

You can check more info over at the Microsoft Windows 8 blog.