Just as Microsoft announced, both Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 have been released to manafucturers (RTM’ed) in the first week of August. Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 were RTM'ed with buildnumbers 9200 and build dates of July 25th, 2012.

The complete list of products that have been released today is:

• Windows 8
• Windows 8 Professional
• Windows 8 Enterprise
• Windows Server 2012 Standard
• Windows Server 2012 Datacenter
• Hyper-V Server 2012

Also, today, Microsoft RTM’ed Visual Studio 2012 and .Net Framework 4.5.

What does this mean?

This milestone depicts the final stage in the development of these two Operating Systems. The product teams have done their work and all the code, features, artwork and EULAs have been included.

What’s next?

Microsoft is now readying its distribution channel to get Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 to customers. These channels include TechNet websites, MSDN websites, Microsoft Stores and OEM partners.

Windows 8 for customers and Microsoft enthusiasts

Windows 8 will be available to customers on October 26th, 2012, together with Microsofts Windows RT-powered Surface tablets and devices from other manufacturers. People with MSDN and TechNet accounts will gain access on August 15.

Windows 8 for businesses

Volume License customers with active Software Assurance on the Windows Client, Professional Desktop or Enterprise Desktop will be able to download the bits and product keys on August 16. Partners will also gain access on August 16, unless they are Action Pack subscribers. (these partners have to wait untill August 20). Buying Windows 8 without Software Assurance within Volume License programs will become available on September 1 through Microsoft Volume License Resellers.

Windows Server 2012

The only officially announced data for Windows Server 2012 is September 4th, 2012. On this date, Microsoft hosts an online launch event for the new cloud-optimized Windows Server Operating System.

Visit this site to save the date for the launch event.

Party on!

Further reading

Platform Delivered! Windows and Visual Studio RTM
Windows Server 2012 RTMs, online launch September 4th
Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 Released to Manufacturing!!!
Windows 8 has RTM’d!
Windows 8 is done, available August 15th with final Visual Studio 2012
Windows 8 RTMs
Windows 8 hits RTM milestone
What Windows 8 RTM Means for Businesses
Windows 8 has reached the RTM milestone
Windows Server 2012 released to manufacturing!