Microsoft confirmed on Tuesday that it is planning for Windows 7 to hit retail shelves and start showing up on new PCs on 22 October.
To reach that milestone, Microsoft plans to wrap up development of the operating system by the middle or end of next month, senior vice president Bill Veghte said in an interview.
"The feedback from the release candidate has been good," Veghte said.
Microsoft made the near-final release candidate version available in May. Shortly after its release, Microsoft finally confirmed that it was aiming Windows 7 for a Christmas 2009 release, something that was widely anticipated, but not confirmed by Microsoft.
In an interview, Phil McKinney, chief technology officer of HP's computer unit, said he feels good about Microsoft's launch date.
"We're locked and loaded for the launch," McKinney said. "The quality of code is just absolutely stellar."
The software maker also confirmed, without giving details, that it plans to offer some sort of "technology guarantee", giving those who buy Vista machines close to the Windows 7 launch a free or discounted copy of the new operating system. As with past similar programmes, details on pricing will be up to individual computer makers, although Microsoft did say the upgrade programme will apply to Vista Home Premium and higher-priced editions (meaning not Windows Vista Basic).
The technology guarantee programme is not beginning immediately, but Microsoft raised the possibility it will offer some sort of lower-cost upgrade to those who are already using Windows Vista.
Microsoft has said that Windows 7 will come in five different editions in most markets: Starter, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate. A 'Windows 7 Basic' will also be sold in emerging markets, Microsoft said.
The software maker has yet to announce pricing for the product.
