Three weeks ago, Acer let slip some pretty strong hints about Windows 7's release schedule, saying it would release an all-in-one desktop based on the OS on October 23. Today, Paul Thurrott of the SuperSite for Windows has also revealed a release date while discussing another topic.

Thurrott states plainly in his review of the Windows 7 release candidate, "You'll be able to get the final version of Windows 7 publicly on October 15, 2009, according to the current schedule. . . . Mark your calendar." That statement leaves room for Microsoft to move things around, although coupled with the Acer slip-up, it certainly makes a mid- to late-October launch sound that much likelier.

Microsoft itself hasn't been anywhere near that specific when talking about release dates. Previously, the official line was that Windows 7 would come within three years of Windows Vista's general availability date—so, by the end of January 2010. A few days ago, however, the software maker confirmed that Windows 7 will be out "in time for the holiday shopping season." Windows Server 2008 R2 should come out in the same time frame, as well.

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Another site claims

Acer has confirmed that Windows 7 will be available pre-loaded on their new all-in-one Z5600 PC from the 23 October 2009, not by the end of January 2010 as Microsoft has been previously suggesting.

Although some rumours have put the OS' release closer to the end of 2009, Microsoft has yet to officially confirm that the software will be launched sooner than the 3-years-after-Vista timescale.

Acer also confirmed to us that any Vista-based models purchased in the 30 days prior to this date will be eligible for Microsoft's free upgrade programme.

"23rd October is the date the Windows 7 will be available. There is a 30 day upgrade time so that customers don't wait to buy a new computer, so if you buy during that 30 day period, you'll get a free upgrade to Windows 7", Bobby Watkins, Acer's UK MD told Pocket-lint.

Talking about their new all-in-one model, the Z5600 PC, specifically designed for Windows 7, the company revealed that the Asus Eee Top rival, will actually be shipping at the end of September to be in stores for people to "touch and feel".