Until they get more information -- and that could mean actually seeing Windows 8 devices -- a significant number of these potential buyers will put off buying, says IDC analyst Jay Chou. "The announcement of a Windows 8 launch date, as well as broader communication of new features in the OS, are key steps that would help to address uncertainty about new product availability and help consumers and channels plan their purchases," he says.

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Those plans may be solidified soon, given that CEO Steve Ballmer says that the new operating system and the Surface tablets that support it will be available in October. Also, the company says the release to manufacturing version of Windows 8 will be available next month, giving decision makers the chance to play with the operating system in its near-final form.