At an Intel company event, Chief Executive Officer Paul Otellini revealed to employees that Microsoft is planning to release Windows 8 before it is fully ready, and is instead opting to roll out regular updates to fix glitches and fill out feature sets in the weeks and months that follow.
The report, originally published by Bloomberg News, cites an anonymous source who attended a private company meeting in Taipei on Tuesday. The employee told Bloomberg that Otellini supported Microsoft's decision, as an earlier release will give devices running the OS a fighting chance against the iPad this fall.
Microsoft spokesman Mark Martin noted that "With over 16 million active preview participants, Windows 8 is the most tested, reviewed and ready operating system in Microsoft's history." Windows 8 has been available in preview form since mid-August, giving users a chance to test the new OS while providing valuable data to Microsoft for fine tuning the product.
Intel's Otellini isn't the first professional to sound off on bugs. After Intel's early-September developer forum, JMP Securities LLC analyst Alex Gauna wrote, "we are concerned at the level of bugs and fine tuning that appears necessary to get the beta systems we demoed ready for prime time."
Bloomberg News contacted Intel spokeswoman Laura Anderson, who asserted that her company "believes Windows represents a tremendous opportunity for our business and we're looking forward to working with Microsoft on enabling a host of new experiences on a variety of devices."
While no software launch is without its bugs, an "unfinished" OS would be sure to rattle the feathers of tech savvy early adopters.
In terms of Windows 8's price, Mircosoft is offering a discounted $14.99 upgrade fee for consumers who bought a Windows PC on June 2, 2012 or after. Those interested can visit this site to register for a promo code now. The promotion ends on January 31, 2013. If you are not elegible for the code, you will still be able to purchase a discounted version of the OS for $39 between the previously mentioned dates. The final retail price of Windows 8 after this "early adopter" period is still unannounced.
Latinos Post will provide regular updates on the OS leading up to its October 26, 2012 release.
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