Microsoft has reportedly finalized Windows 10 ahead of its July 29 release date. The company has selected build 10240 as the final release to manufacturing (RTM) copy according to sources familiar with the matter as reported by The Verge.
The milestone means Microsoft can now start sending copies of Windows 10 to OEM partners to install on new devices. Sources say Microsoft could announce its RTM status by the end of the week or simply choose to forego the tradition to focus entirely on the consumer launch.
Coincidentally, it was almost 20 years ago to the day that Microsoft released Windows 95 to manufacturing. That operating system was a monumental step forward that helped drive home the concept of personal computing to the mass market.
With Windows 10, Microsoft is no doubt hoping to hit another grand slam.
The Redmond-based company is taking a radically different approach with its new OS. Microsoft has publically stated that Windows 10 will be the last version of Windows as it transitions from big releases to incremental updates. Windows as a service is a bold concept but one that suddenly seems entirely plausible.
As we write this, Insiders in the Fast and Slow rings are already receiving their copy of the "finalized" Windows code.
We're living in an unprecedented period in which technology is now a very personal experience that has reshaped society in ways that few could have predicted. It'll be interesting to see whether or not Microsoft can deliver yet another culturally defining moment with Windows 10.