Microsoft seems to be on track to launch its latest operating system, Windows 8, later this month. On Thursday, Oct. 4, the Redmond-based company sent out invites for its Windows 8 event that is scheduled for Oct. 25.

Previous rumors indicated that Microsoft will launch the Windows 8 operating system in October. Now, Microsoft fans have a confirmed date to mark on their calendar as the company has officially announced that Windows 8 will launch on Oct. 25, at Pier 57 in New York City from 10am to 3pm.

"Windows 95 was certainly the biggest thing in the last 20 years until now. I think Windows 8 certainly surpasses it," said Steve Ballmer, Chief Executive Officer, Microsoft.

Microsoft is also expected to offer more details on the Windows RT devices. The invite seems promising as it says "Microsoft Surface reception." Invitees will be hoping that they get to test the company's first Surface Tablet series.

Microsoft is yet to divulge the full specifications and pricing of the Surface Tablets. Moreover, with 21 days to go for the official launch, the company has not yet made the devices available for pre-order. However, in an interview with The Seattle Times, Ballmer hinted that the Surface Tablets will be range between $300 to $800.

The Windows 8 operating system is expected to have a speedy boot time when compared to the previous OS versions. One of the most talked about features of Windows 8 is the innovative and dynamic desktop with the tile-based interface, or the Metro UI. The grid layout of the operating system facilitates users' interaction with the device. Users can also customize the grid by adding and arranging applications.

Windows 8 also has an improved search function. Users can type anything and a search box will appear and give the results. The search capability is very user friendly, displaying all the matching apps and files related to the search instantly.

With barely a month to go before users can experience the latest Windows 8, time will tell if Microsoft can live up to the hype and expectations.