Windows 8 due out in October

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 8 will launch in late October.

Speaking at its annual Worldwide Partner Conference, the computing giant announced that the final consumer version of its latest operating system will launch October alongside the first run of its next-generation tablets and phones.

Microsoft also announced that users who purchase Windows 7 PCs from today would be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro following its release for just $14.99.

Manufacturers are set to start putting the operating system into their new desktops, laptops and tablets from the start of August.

Microsoft also announced that it has sold 630 millions Windows 7 licences and will offer discounts to drive users to upgrade.