Everything You Need to Know About the Release Date of Windows 8

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What is Windows 8?

Windows 8 represents a significant milestone in the Windows NT operating system, developed exclusively by Microsoft. As the first touch-focused Windows OS, it boasts substantial changes to its user interface, setting it apart from its predecessors.

While Windows 8 has been succeeded by the latest Windows 11, which was officially launched on October 5, 2021, it’s worth noting that as of June 2022, Windows 8 still captures a market share of approximately 0.67%. The update, Windows 8.1, has accrued a 2.83% market share.

Windows 8 Release Date

On August 1, 2012, Windows 8 was released to manufacturing and subsequently became available for download via MSDN and TechNet on August 15, 2012. Finally, on October 26, 2012, it hit retail shelves worldwide.

Windows 11 22H2 release date
Windows 10 release date
Windows 7 release date
Windows 12 may arrive in 2024

System Requirements for Windows 8

Before installing Windows 8 on your device, verify whether your PC meets the following requirements:

CPU: At least 1 GHz with NX, PAE, and SSE2 support (64-bit versions call for CMPXCHG16b, PrefetchW, and LAHF/SAHF support)
RAM: 1 GB (2 GB for 64-bit versions)
Hard Drive: A minimum of 16 GB free space (20 GB for 64-bit versions)
Graphic Card: Any GPU that supports DirectX 9 with a WDDM driver

Keep in mind that newer computers typically possess more advanced configurations, making them compatible with Windows 8. However, if you’re utilizing an older computer purchased prior to the release of Windows 8, it’s advisable to ensure that it fulfills the aforementioned requirements.

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Windows 8.1 Release Date

Windows 8.1 serves as a feature update to Windows 8.

May 14, 2013: Microsoft makes an official announcement regarding Windows 8.1.
June 26, 2013: Microsoft releases a public beta version of the upgrade.
August 27, 2013: Microsoft releases Windows 8.1 to OEM hardware partners.
September 9, 2013: Microsoft presents the RTM build on MSDN and TechNet.
October 17, 2013: Microsoft offers a free upgrade through the Windows Store.

Windows 8 Editions

The following editions of Windows 8 are available:

Windows 8.1 Pro
Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 Enterprise
Windows RT 8.1

While Windows 8.1 Pro and Windows 8.1 are directly sold to consumers, Windows 8.1 Enterprise caters to large organizations.

Windows 8 End of Support

Support for Windows 8 already concluded on January 12, 2016. On January 10, 2023, Microsoft will terminate support for Windows 8.1.

To continue receiving security protections from Microsoft, we strongly recommend upgrading your system to either Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Recover Lost and Deleted Files on Windows 8/8.1

One essential piece of software that should reside on your device is MiniTool Power Data Recovery. This professional data recovery software supports all Windows versions, including Windows 8/8.1.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery proves invaluable if you mistakenly delete a file since it can scan the relevant drive and attempt to locate the missing data. You can experience it firsthand by using the trial edition.

If you’re satisfied with the recovery capabilities of this software and wish to retrieve your data, upgrading to the full edition is necessary.

In Conclusion

By now, you should be well-acquainted with the release date of Windows 8 and Microsoft’s termination of support for it. Windows 8.1 remains an active service. If you have any related queries or require further assistance, feel free to reach out to us through the comments.

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