First up is a Windows 8 press event in New York on October 25 to kick off the arrival of Windows 8 for desktops, notebooks, tablets, and hybrid devices on October 26. Microsoft also plans what it's calling a during the event, suggesting that we may finally see some hands-on time with the Microsoft-branded tablet before its release.

Microsoft has yet to announce pricing or availability for the ARM-based Surface and the x86-based Surface Pro tablets that were announced in July. The company is expected to release the ARM-based device around the same time as Windows 8, and there are indications the company may . Surface Pro is expected to ship in early 2013.

A few days after the Windows 8 release, Microsoft on will show off the final version of Windows Phone 8, possibly including some unannounced features. Carriers on that day are also expected to announce pricing, availability, and pre-order details for the first round of Windows Phone 8 devices. AT&T has already said it will carry the , but has said only that the device will be available in November.