Final Windows 8 beta released

REDMOND, Wash. – Microsoft is nearly done with a much-anticipated overhaul of its Windows operating system.

The software maker signaled the makeover is nearly complete with Thursday’s release of the final test version of Windows 8.

Windows 8 is considered to be the biggest change in decades to Microsoft’s widely used operating system. The software displays applications in a mosaic of tiles and has been designed so it can run on desktop, laptop and tablet computers.

The versatility of Windows 8 is expected to spawn a new generation of computers that are part laptop, part tablet.

The latest test version of Windows 8 upgrades includes more ways to connect to other Microsoft services, more security controls and more touch-screen features.

Microsoft Corp. hasn’t announced when Windows 8 will go on sale yet. Most industry analysts expect the software will be available in September or October.

Microsoft will offer a special promotion that begins Saturday. The program allows buyers of computers running on Windows 7 to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro, when it’s available, for $14.99. Microsoft hasn’t announced other prices.