The official launch of Windows 10 is expected to take place by early fall 2015 at the latest, according to comments made by Microsoft's chief operating officer Kevin Turner at a conference in Phoenix. CNET.com reported the news.
A preview version of Windows 10 for developers is expected to be presented in early summer 2015. Before then, Microsoft will likely present the major features of the new software at the Microsoft Build 2015 conference, which is set to take place in San Francisco from April 29 to May 1, 2015.
However, ordinary consumers will have to wait a while longer for the final Windows 10 product, which Turner said will be ready for release "by late summer and early fall." Microsoft's timeline with regards to the consumer launch could be confirmed at a special event to be held in late January.
Currently available in a technical preview, Windows 10 will be compatible not only with the PC but with a wide range of other devices including Xbox consoles, smartphones, tablets and even connected appliances. Microsoft also plans to offer a unified, cross-device apps platform.
In addition to reintroducing the much-missed "Start" menu, which offers easy access to frequently used programs and files, Windows 10 is expected to support Cortana, the voice-controlled smart assistant previously available only on Windows Phone 8.1 in the US, Canada, the UK and Australia.