Windows 8.1 hit RTM only a few days ago and while Microsoft has been holding the final bits back from developers via its MSDN/Technet channels, the English version (note: the en-US 8.1 Pro x64 install.wim leaked) of the platform has now leaked. The English leak follows a series of RTM leaks that have occurred since the platform was sent to OEMs that appear to have originated from China.
Microsoft, for whatever reason they see fit, has decided against posting Windows 8.1 to its developer channels and wanted to make all users wait until October 18th before they can get their hands on the update. But, when there is a will, there is a way, and the Windows 8.1 community has been able go against Microsoft’s wishes by leaking a copy of Windows 8.1 that was sent to OEMs.
As with any leaked copy of any software, you will be installing the software at your own risk and since the bits come from unofficial channels, they could be modified without prior knowledge.
With that being said, the English version of Windows 8.1 is now floating around the web in all of the usual places (we won’t link to them per site policy) but if you fancy installing Windows 8.1 now, go forth and download.
For those of you wanting to wait until Microsoft releases the update officially, you will get your chance on October 18th at retail locations and on the 17th via the Windows Store.
[Update] It looks like the wim file might be corrupt, proceed with caution. The wim, which many reported as corrupted, can be fixed and will allow for a proper install.