Windows 8 seems to be "this close" to becoming a reality in its final form, at least for PC OEM hardware makers. A website that has provided accurate information about Windows 8 build numbers in the past, Winunleaked.info, has made an update to its list, claiming that Microsoft has "signed off" on the final build.
The site"s forums lists 9200.16384.win8_rtm.120725-1247 as the "signed off" build for Windows 8 RTM (Release to Manufacturing). If true, this would be in line with previous reports that have Microsoft putting in 9200 as the build number for the commercial version of Windows 8.
Other reports from unnamed sources claim that Microsoft could provide the final Windows 8 RTM build via download for its OEM partners as early as Wednesday, August 1st. It"s also possible that the build could get leaked out into the Internet before that happens.
Once again, we want to note that Microsoft has not commented on any of these Windows 8 RTM "sign off" reports. Offically, the only thing Microsoft has said that Windows 8 RTM is scheduled to launch in the first week of August. It will be available for consumers to buy, via updates or in new PCs, on October 26th.