Microsoft on Wednesday announced the availability of release to manufacturing (RTM) versions of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2. The operating system has completed all of the initial development steps, while the RTM will give the company a chance to run validation checks, including languages, before it is provided to the public.

The Windows 7 RTM will also be provided to partners, enabling creation of third-party software to be launched alongside the OS launch. Additional information for developers is available directly from the company.

The software is scheduled to ship to the public on October 22nd. Microsoft earlier this week confirmed the existence of a family pack that includes three licenses for the Home Premium edition.

BTW the familiy pack is only available in some selected countries, here in the Netherlands for example .. we won't get that option, rediculous.