The Verge is reporting this morning an October release for Windows 8.1 along with new hardware releases. Anonymous sources have stated the same to Mary Jo Foley.
Microsoft execs said last month that the company would deliver Windows 8.1 RTM code to its OEMs by the end of August. I’m [Foly] still hearing that Microsoft is on track to finalize Windows 8.1 the last week of August.
This story goes against earlier ones suggesting faster turn around times.
Windows 8.1 preview has been available for several months now. Features include the return of the start button as well as numerous other mouse and keyboard improvements. This is why many journalists are stating Windows 8.1 is safe.