<p>Microsoft is getting set to release Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 in October, with events planned in New York and San Francisco, pop-up stores set to open across the U.S. during the holidays, and lots of interesting new Windows-flavored gadgets appearing.Be a part of it: Windows 8</p><p>First up is a Windows 8 press event in New York on October 25 to kick off the arrival of Windows 8 for desktops, notebooks, tablets, and hybrid devices on October 26. Microsoft also plans what it's calling a Surface reception during the event, suggesting that we may finally see some hands-on time with the Microsoft-branded tablet before its release.</p><p>Microsoft has yet to announce pricing or availability for the ARM-based Surface and the x86-based Surface Pro tablets that were announced in July. The company is expected to release the ARM-based device around the same time as Windows 8, and there are indications the company may ship Surface on October 26. Surface Pro is expected to ship in early 2013.Windows Phone 8 in San Francisco</p><p>A few days after the Windows 8 release, Microsoft on October 29 will show off the final version of Windows Phone 8, possibly including some unannounced features. Carriers on that day are also expected to announce pricing, availability, and pre-order details for the first round of Windows Phone 8 devices. AT&amp;T has already said it will carry the Nokia Lumia 920, but has said only that the device will be available in November.</p><p><a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/2011290/here-is-your-windows-8-and-windows-phone-8-launch-guide-event-and-product-highlights.html">Keep reading...</a></p><p>Read also:</p><p><a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-205_162-57527073/microsoft-surface-tablet-windows-8-coming-oct-26/">Microsoft Surface tablet, Windows 8 coming Oct. 26</a> (CBS News)</p><p><a href="http://bostinno.com/2012/10/05/windows-8-release-and-launch-event-photos/">Windows 8 Release and Launch Event [PHOTOS]</a> (BostInno)</p><p><a href="http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/mobile/display/20121005065417_Microsoft_Sets_Windows_Phone_8_Launch_Date.html">Microsoft Sets Windows Phone 8 Launch Date.</a> (X-bit Labs)</p><p>Explore: <a href="http://news.google.com/news/more?ncl=da89mjLxwUrzjDM31ApdYMpVtsjVM&ned=us">742 additional articles.</a></p>