The final version of Windows 8 has leaked onto the Internet just one day after Microsoft made the upcoming operating system available to OEM partners. The leaked copy is an "N" version of Windows 8 which means it doesn't include Windows Media Player. A 2004 European Union ruling mandated that Microsoft must provide a copy of Windows that didn't bundle the media player.
The N version is now publically available across various file sharing sites. Microsoft has declined to comment on the leak, but it seems plausible at this point that someone working at an OEM partner is responsible for the leak.
As we reported yesterday, MSDN and TechNet customers won't be able to get their hands on the finalized version of Windows until August 15. This gives developers just over two months to submit their paid apps for inclusion in the Windows Store.
As you likely already know, Microsoft has set a release date of October 26 for the next generation operating system. It goes without saying that it's probably in your best interest to wait until the OS is officially released before making the switch.
Upgrade pricing is set at only $39.99 for those running legit copies of Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. Furthermore, if you purchased a Windows 7 machine in the months leading up to Windows 8's release, you'll be eligible to upgrade for just $14.99.