Windows 8 devices, expected to launch around October alongside the OS, are claimed to be targeting the Apple user base. Comments from Acer said Microsoft is targeting high-end products, a space which Apple has dominated since releasing the iPhone in 2007.

The devices will apparently launch in North America, one of Microsoft's biggest markets, and according to Acer, will be the key to whether Microsoft's luxury line of devices succeed.

Acer Chairman JT Wang said the higher pricing is because PC sales are falling in the low- and mid-end markets due to the expanding tablet markets, because of the stumbling economy. Microsoft is positioning Windows 8 as a touch-friendly operating system, building the Metro interface for touch. Whether Microsoft goes high-end only, or launches a range of devices at launch, remains to be seen.

Wang also said Windows 8 has to be as successful as Apple's iOS in the high-end market to gain consumer mindshare. Despite Android being the most popular operating system, Apple dominates the tablet space with the iPad.

Acer itself has introduced a range of Windows 8 devices that includes two tablets, two ultrabooks and two hybrid PCs at the Computex tech conference in Taiwan. Ultrabooks seem to be a popular choice for OEMs developing Windows 8 machines, perhaps due to the success of the MacBook Air and seeing the devices as a middle ground between the form factor of a tablet and the functionality of a PC.

Wang added Windows 8 is unique, and claimed it enhances user experience and creativity. He also said that's because of the ability to switch between the desktop and Metro side of OS.

The dual functionality of the OS has received criticism from some users, claiming the Metro side isn't optimized for mouse and keyboards and the desktop side isn't optimal on tablets. For the latter, other users have said precise inputs - such as closing a window, or pressing the Start orb - are cumbersome.

The Windows 8 Release Preview is available for download now, which is a faster and more complete build of Windows 8 compared to the Consumer Preview.